On January 14, 2025, the Government of Manipur issued the Manipur Inner Line Permit Guidelines (Amendment), 2024, which amends the existing ILP system in the state, as authorized under the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation, 1873. This amendment aims to regulate the movement and stay of non-resident individuals in Manipur, ensuring that all individuals entering the state have a valid permit.
Introduction of New ILP Categories for Workers
The amended guidelines introduce new working ILP categories for temporary and regular workers.
- Half-Yearly Working ILP Permit: This is for workers and laborers in the unorganized sector who are employed by registered private sector companies. The permit is valid for 180 days but can be extended for another 180 days. Extensions beyond 360 days are not allowed.
- Annual Working ILP Permit: This is for regular employees of registered private sector companies and institutions. The permit is valid for 360 days but is not extendable. After the permit expires, the worker can apply for a fresh permit with a minimum gap of one day.
Verification of Sponsors
Under the amended guidelines, the authorities will verify the details and past records of sponsors before issuing any ILP. This process includes ensuring that sponsors have not been blacklisted and involves verifying the sponsor’s identity through personal appearances, either physically or virtually.
Permit Renewal and Extensions
- Temporary, regular, and annual working permits are not extendable beyond their validity period.
- A grace period of 15 days may be granted in exceptional cases, such as a medical emergency, allowing the permit holder to remain in the state for medical treatment. However, this extension can only be used once and will incur a fee of Rs. 500.
- For working permits, if the holder’s permit expires, they must exit Manipur before reapplying. A gap of at least 1 day is required for applying for a new permit.
Form-Based System for Working ILPs
The new guidelines introduce a form-based system for working permits.
This ensures greater transparency and structure in the issuing process.
Penalties for Violations
The amended guidelines increase penalties for violators.
- Penalty for Unauthorized Stay: If a non-permanent resident stays in Manipur without a valid ILP, the sponsoring entity (whether an individual or institution) will be liable to pay a penalty of Rs. 50,000 to Rs. 1 lakh per person.
- Fines for Public Authorities: Any public authority found involved in the illegal issuance of ILPs will be fined Rs. 1 lakh per permit. They could also face prosecution under the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation, 1873.
Responsibilities of Sponsors
Sponsors are now more accountable for the activities of their ILP holders. In the event of criminal or anti-social activities committed by the permit holder, the sponsor will be responsible for reporting the incident to the police and ensuring the apprehension of the ILP holder.
Exemptions for Children
Children under 3 years of age will be exempt from ILP fees. However, they still need to be registered for the appropriate type of permit through the issuing authorities.
Special Provisions for Deportation
In cases of defaulters overstaying in the state, the cost of deportation will be borne by the defaulter if they hold a temporary ILP. In cases of regular, working, or special ILP holders, the sponsor will bear the cost.
