Itanagar, May 15, 2026: In a significant move to strengthen the regulation of entry into Arunachal Pradesh, the State Cabinet on Thursday approved a series of stringent measures aimed at modernising and tightening the implementation of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system. The decision was taken during a Cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Pema Khandu.
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| Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu chairs the State Cabinet meeting in Itanagar where new guidelines strengthening the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system were approved. (Image: X/PemaKhanduBJP) |
Under the newly approved ILP Guidelines 2026, the state government will introduce a fully digital e-ILP system featuring QR code-based permits that can be verified electronically at all designated check gates. Officials said the initiative is designed to eliminate the use of fake or forged permits and improve the overall efficiency and transparency of the permit system.
As part of the reforms, the Cabinet also approved Aadhaar-based authentication, mandatory police verification in specified cases, and stricter accountability measures for sponsors issuing work-related ILPs. These provisions are expected to improve monitoring and ensure better traceability of individuals entering and residing in the state.
In a major enforcement initiative, the government has decided to impose tougher penalties for violations of ILP regulations. Individuals found overstaying beyond the validity of their permits or repeatedly violating ILP rules could face enhanced penalties, including restrictions on re-entry into Arunachal Pradesh for up to two years.
To strengthen ground-level enforcement, the Cabinet approved the formation of District Task Forces across the state. These task forces will coordinate inspections and monitoring activities to ensure compliance with ILP regulations. In addition, Superintendents of Police (SPs) and Sub-Divisional Police Officers (SDPOs) will conduct regular surprise inspections and verification drives at check gates, marketplaces, worksites, commercial establishments, and other transit routes.
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According to the Cabinet, the new measures are intended to make the ILP system more technology-driven, transparent, and effective while preventing misuse and ensuring stricter regulation of entry into the state.
The decision comes amid growing public demand for stronger implementation of the ILP mechanism and follows recent protests and discussions concerning the protection of indigenous tribal communities and the regulation of the influx of outsiders into Arunachal Pradesh.
Officials stated that the digital reforms will help improve record-keeping, strengthen enforcement, and enhance the state's ability to monitor movement while safeguarding the interests of local communities. The government believes the updated framework will strike a balance between facilitating legitimate travel and ensuring effective regulation under the Inner Line Permit system.
