Shillong, February 18: The Meghalaya government on Wednesday informed the Assembly that it is examining legal mechanisms to regulate the entry of foreigners into the state, while continuing to pursue the demand for Inner Line Permit (ILP) with the Centre.
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Replying to a starred question, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma said the matter is under examination by the state government and is being taken up with the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), Government of India.
The Chief Minister said illegal immigration remains a major concern for the state, which shares an international border of about 443 km with Bangladesh. He clarified that the government’s objective is to create an effective monitoring mechanism to curb illegal immigration, whether through ILP or other legal provisions.
Referring to the Immigration and Foreigners Act, 2025, Sangma said the Act provides for declaration of “protected” or “restricted” areas by the Centre. If Meghalaya or certain districts are notified under these provisions, foreigners entering such areas would require special permits under Section 11 of the Act.
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He stated that the government is exploring whether inclusion under this existing central law could help establish a permit-based regulatory system similar in objective to ILP. However, he reiterated that the demand for ILP has not been given up and continues to be pursued with the Centre.
The issue led to heated exchanges in the House, with opposition members questioning the government’s seriousness on ILP and raising concerns over possible impact on tourism and Sixth Schedule protections.
Sangma maintained that the government is examining all legal aspects, consulting with the Law Department, and engaging with the MHA before initiating wider stakeholder consultations. He assured the House that efforts to curb illegal immigration will continue through all possible avenues.
