The Hynniewtrep A’chik National Movement (HANM) has renewed its efforts to push for the implementation of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) in Meghalaya, following recent actions by the Khasi Students’ Union (KSU). The KSU recently expelled over 2,500 migrant workers from the state due to their lack of proper documentation, intensifying the debate over migration and cultural preservation.
HANM President Lamphrang Kharbani stated that the Ministry of Home Affairs has acknowledged the ongoing border dispute between Meghalaya and Assam. The Ministry has directed the Central Division to address the issue, but the timeline for resolving the dispute remains unclear. Despite assurances regarding the inclusion of Khasi and Garo languages in the Constitution’s Eighth Schedule, no concrete timeline has been provided.
In response to the lack of a definitive answer on the ILP, HANM plans another trip to Delhi to reiterate their demand for a concrete resolution. The organization underscores that the ILP is crucial for protecting the indigenous population of Meghalaya, controlling the influx of outsiders, and preserving the region’s cultural identity.
The ILP has been a longstanding demand from local groups, who argue that its implementation is necessary to manage migration and safeguard the cultural heritage of Meghalaya. The KSU’s recent expulsions have highlighted the urgency of these issues, intensifying the call for the ILP.
HANM’s renewed campaign aligns with ongoing pressures from local organizations and community leaders, who view the ILP as essential for maintaining the region’s demographic and cultural balance. The organization’s push for language inclusion also reflects a broader effort to address regional concerns and protect Meghalaya’s unique cultural identity.
