Aizawl, Oct 24 – Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma announced that his government is actively working to evict illegal immigrants and non-tribal individuals residing in the state without valid permits.

During a recent discussion with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Lalduhoma conveyed the government’s intention to conduct eviction drives against non-tribals lacking a valid Inner Line Permit (ILP). “With permission from our governor, I informed our prime minister and union home minister about our intention to carry out eviction drives against non-tribal individuals living in the state without a valid ILP. We have been implementing the exercise in some localities of Aizawl,” he stated.

The chief minister addressed the ongoing general conference of the Young Mizo Association (YMA) at Sakawrdai in Aizawl district, located near the Manipur border. He engaged with central YMA leaders regarding the eviction of illegal settlers.

Lalduhoma emphasized that the ILP, which restricts illegal entry into Mizoram, was established under the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation (BEFR) of 1873 to safeguard tribal communities and areas. He noted that this regulation, initially introduced by the British colonial government and later adopted by the Indian government post-Independence, prohibits non-tribal individuals from purchasing land in the state.

The state government has launched an online ILP system, which is currently being revised and upgraded to prevent illegal influx. Lalduhoma called for the cooperation of the YMA, local councils, and village councils to combat illegal immigration and facilitate the removal of illegal residents.

Additionally, he mentioned that the widening of National Highway-306/06 into four lanes has faced delays due to compensation issues and difficulties in obtaining forest clearance. This highway serves as the primary lifeline of the state and has been in poor condition due to the postponement of widening efforts.

Lalduhoma also highlighted that the construction of a gas pipeline from Tripura and the establishment of a trade facilitation center at the India-Bangladesh border have been hindered by forest clearance challenges.