Governor Lt. General (Retd) K.T. Parnaik has called for urgent steps to enhance border security through fencing and reinforcement of the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system. His remarks come at a time when concerns over infiltration, both from international borders and inter-state migration, have been escalating across the northeastern state.
Speaking at a recent high-level meeting on security and governance, the Governor emphasized the need for robust administrative mechanisms, including the strengthening of the ILP regime and physical barriers at vulnerable border points. He asserted that protecting Arunachal’s demography, culture, and strategic importance is non-negotiable.
Need for Border Fencing in Sensitive Zones
Arunachal Pradesh shares a 1,126-kilometer border with China, much of it along difficult, mountainous terrain. Several areas remain poorly patrolled due to logistical challenges, making them susceptible to illegal crossings, smuggling, and even inadvertent or deliberate transgressions by foreign nationals.
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The Governor stated, “There is an urgent need to create physical deterrents through fencing, especially in sectors prone to infiltration and cross-border movement. This is vital for the safety of border villages and for strengthening our national security posture in the Northeast.”
While full-scale fencing along the Indo-China border is logistically complex, the Governor recommended priority fencing in select sectors where infiltration risks are the highest. He also called for better surveillance infrastructure and enhanced cooperation with the Indian Army and paramilitary forces deployed in the region.
Reinforcing the Inner Line Permit System
The Inner Line Permit (ILP) system, a colonial-era regulation, is designed to control the entry of non-locals into protected regions of Arunachal Pradesh. While it remains in effect, enforcement issues and loopholes have often been reported, leading to fears of demographic imbalance and illegal settlements in tribal-dominated areas.
Governor Parnaik stressed the need for digitization, centralized monitoring, and stricter penalties for violations. He also proposed interlinking ILP records with Aadhaar and other government databases to prevent misuse.
“There must be zero tolerance for the violation of ILP rules. The identity and purpose of every visitor must be properly verified. This is not just about migration control, but about preserving the rights of indigenous people,” he added.
Support from State Administration and Civil Society
The Governor’s call has received support from various quarters, including local legislators, tribal leaders, and student unions like the All Arunachal Pradesh Students’ Union (AAPSU). These groups have long demanded stronger action against unchecked infiltration and non-tribal encroachments in protected areas.
The state government is reportedly working on a proposal to update ILP checkpoints and modernize border surveillance using drones, thermal sensors, and AI-based tracking systems. Additionally, awareness campaigns are being planned to educate locals about the importance of reporting suspicious movement and upholding the sanctity of the ILP framework.
Security and Cultural Preservation Go Hand-in-Hand
Arunachal Pradesh is not only strategically vital but also culturally rich, with dozens of distinct tribal groups and languages. Unregulated movement of people poses a threat not only to national security but also to the unique cultural fabric of the state.
By pushing for fencing and a stronger ILP, Governor Parnaik aims to balance national defense priorities with the need to preserve Arunachal’s identity. He urged all stakeholders—including security forces, administrators, and citizens—to work in coordination for long-term peace and stability.
A Proactive Step Towards Securing Arunachal’s Borders
Governor K.T. Parnaik’s push for border fencing and a more robust Inner Line Permit system reflects growing concern over infiltration and demographic threats in Arunachal Pradesh. With increasing geopolitical tensions along the Indo-China border and internal challenges related to migration, these measures are timely and necessary.
If implemented effectively, they can significantly bolster national security while also respecting the rights and traditions of the indigenous people. As the state government takes the next steps, Arunachal Pradesh could become a model for border state governance in India’s Northeast.
