A major scam has surfaced in Manipur, resulting in the detention of nine individuals involved in the issuance of counterfeit Inner Line Permit (ILP) cards. Chief Minister Biren Singh addressed the press, highlighting the gravity of the situation and the immediate measures being taken.
The CM highlighted that the ILP system, designed to protect the indigenous population of Manipur, has been exploited by dishonest individuals. “The Inner Line Permits System was a gift from the Central Government to protect the indigenous people of Manipur. It is unfortunate that some people are misusing the system by issuing fake cards,” he stated.
Acting on credible information, the State Government conducted raids across five locations in Manipur, recovering approximately 3,500 fake ILP labour permits. These operations were carried out at a computer centre in Namdulong, a mobile repair shop in Kakulong, a mobile shop in Thangal Bazar, a computer center near the Babupara DC Bungalow, and a reception counter at a laboratory centre on RIMS road.
The investigation revealed unauthorised personnel handling sensitive matters meant for District Commissioners and Labour Commissioners. “It has come to light that unauthorised personnel were also handling these sensitive matters,” the CM expressed with concern.
The uncovering of the fake ILP cards has led to suspicions of involvement from high-ranking officials and business figures, prompting the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) for a thorough probe. The CM stressed the importance of adhering to the base year of December 31, 1961, for determining ILP eligibility, pointing out that some officials had ignored this crucial criterion.
In response to the fraud, alerts have been issued to all police stations to apprehend holders of the fake cards. The CM called for all perpetrators to surrender voluntarily, offering them a chance to avoid severe legal consequences.
To prevent future breaches, CM Biren announced plans to strengthen the ILP implementation process and enforce stricter measures across all ILP counters in Manipur. This decisive action aims to restore the integrity of the ILP system and ensure its proper functioning in protecting the rights of the indigenous population.
