Academic interpretation for ILP demand

Dr AK Chishti *

ILP : Protest rally at Sekta on September 13 2014 :: Pix - Shankar Khangembam

This is the considered view of the Association that the issue is more of biological nature than of political one. The issue arises out of increasing problem of space, means and other factors governing the human integration and identity.

The erstwhile kingdom of Manipur that once extended its area/border upto Thibomei (Kohima) in the north and Kabow valley (7,000 sq mile) in the east is now just a tiny State of 8,620.5 sq mile with limited habitable areas, no doubt. Manipur's case is different as the hill area/districts constitute 89.98 pc of the total geographical area, the more habitable and cultivable areas are confined to the valley.

Of the total population, 59.82 pc reside in the valley with a density of 727.86/square kilometre in sharp contrast to hill population with a density of 54.43/square kilometre, such is the situation in the State.

The ecosystem in nature is a structural and functional unit built over a long period of time. The system's stability is not brought about over night. Its structural and functional continuity if disturbed in an unmanageable manner or scale, restoration may be difficult or may not be possible at all. Many forests that turned into deserts are before us to see.

The people of this tiny land called Manipur have every reason to express their serious concern with the developing situation threatening their normal lives and future. It is not directed against any community or communities or in violation of the Constitution of the Nation. It is the declared policy of the Government of India also that there should be a check in the increase of population for fear of population explosion.

The slogan 'Small Family, Happy Family' is always true for all. Bigger States may not face this problem now as we do. In their eyes our movement for the protection and preservation of our land and integrity is read on communal line, it is not true at all.

The situation may be considered as a case of a small boat ferrying more passengers than the carrying capacity permits. One should not question the seat capacity and admission in respect of Institutions, transports like bus, train and aeroplane.

The policy is not against the right to admission, the right to occupy the seats. It does not against humanism too. If we see the demographics of the land it will be fully justified to raise this issue in time. The movement will be appreciated by all with sense.

Our Government should conduct a prompt survey, only then it will agree with the real situation of the impending danger looming over the State's future.

Neighbouring States have already introduced the ILP without any fuss. The issue is not new, as people who are more sensitive but few in numbers have been raising this issue since decades back. However, only today the issue gains momentum as the inflow of outsiders is touching the dangers level.

The inevitable will then follow when there is a bitter clash of interest. All the inhabitants of this land in the hills and the valley should now join hands to strengthen the movement further in their own interest.

The introduction of Inner Line Permit System in this State is the only available option. The State Government and the Centre should not remain complacent when the situation has come to such a pass. The whole sub nation will be grateful and thankful to their Government and the Centre if their genuine demand finds favour with them and the movement comes to a logical conclusion.

In the end the Association is of the firm view that a comprehensive survey of the carrying capacity of the available State land in respect of
(i) habitable areas
(ii) cultivable land and other resources and
(iii) employment opportunities so and so forth
is indispensable to make all the people and authorities concerned aware of the socio-economic challenges pertaining to the State.

This may help the authorities to take the appropriate actions/steps to mitigate the present volatile situation in the problem ridden State.