SHILLONG, FEB 18: Ardent Basaiawmoit, chief of the Voice of the People Party (VPP), has clarified that his party is not opposing the Immigration and Foreigners Act 2025 but is demanding the implementation of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system to regulate migration into Meghalaya.
Speaking on Wednesday, Basaiawmoit said the central legislation was intended to protect the state and would be implemented in areas deemed appropriate by the Government of India.
“We are asking for ILP because we do not want to be overwhelmed with people from outside the state,” he stated.
He argued that the ILP system is a reasonable constitutional provision that regulates the movement of visitors while ensuring security and proper monitoring.
“ILP is not a complete ban, but a regulation. In one way, it provides security, and in another way, it helps prevent crime and track those visiting the state,” Basaiawmoit said.
He emphasized that the party’s demand is aimed at safeguarding Meghalaya’s interests while ensuring orderly and regulated entry into the state.