The three individuals found selling tobacco products without ILP in Wokha were handed over to the district administration along with confiscated items. (Morung Photo)
Morung Express News
Wokha | May 21
The Lotha Students’ Union (LSU) on Thursday apprehended six individuals in Wokha town for allegedly failing to possess valid Inner Line Permits (ILP), while reiterating its call for stricter enforcement of the permit system in Nagaland.
Addressing media persons, LSU officials informed that three of the apprehended individuals were employed as salespersons in various establishments in Wokha town, while the remaining three were travelling salespersons engaged in the sale of tobacco products.
According to the union, the travelling salespersons had reportedly entered Mokokchung district and subsequently Wokha district without obtaining ILP and without authorisation to carry out the sale of tobacco-related products.
Speaking on the matter, LSU President S Zubenthung Ngullie stressed the importance of strengthening the ILP mechanism in the state. He questioned why non-locals were permitted to enter Nagaland without obtaining ILP beforehand, only to apply later, while other states maintain stricter entry requirements.
Ngullie appealed to the government to ensure stringent implementation of ILP regulations, including proper monitoring mechanisms to track whether permit holders exit the state within the stipulated period.
He further warned that individuals entering Wokha district without valid ILP would face strict action, including deportation to the nearest state border. Highlighting that online application systems are already available for obtaining ILP, he urged all concerned to comply with existing regulations.
The LSU president also informed that the three individuals found selling tobacco products without ILP had been handed over to the district administration along with confiscated items. Meanwhile, the three salespersons employed in Wokha town were directed to secure the necessary documents within two days, failing which they would be required to leave the district.
In addition, Ngullie stated that the union would submit a representation to the Deputy Commissioner on May 22, outlining its concerns and seeking stronger enforcement of ILP regulations, particularly through intensified monitoring at district check gates.
Meanwhile, LSU Vice President N Chipenthung Kikon and General Secretary Nyanthung M Khuvung cautioned business establishments located within 100 metres of educational institutions against the sale of tobacco-related products, warning that legal action would be initiated against violators.
