Meghalaya Assembly Sees Heated Exchanges Over Inner Line Permit Demand
The third day of Meghalaya's ongoing budget session turned tumultuous as legislators engaged in fierce debate over the long-standing demand for implementing the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system in the tribal-majority state. The discussion revealed deep divisions between the ruling coalition and opposition parties, ultimately forcing Speaker Thomas A Sangma to adjourn the House for ten minutes to restore order.
Sharp Differences Emerge Between Ruling and Opposition Parties
The debate saw National People's Party (NPP) legislators, led by Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma, locking horns with opposition leader Mukul Sangma of the Trinamool Congress and Voice of the People Party (VPP) legislator Ardent Basaiawmoit. The government's parallel move to seek protected or restricted area status for Meghalaya under the Immigration and Foreigners Act, 2025 also faced significant scrutiny and opposition during the session.
Leader of the opposition Mukul Sangma pressed the government for a straightforward "yes or no" answer regarding whether the state was actively pursuing ILP implementation with the central government. The Chief Minister rejected this demand for a binary response, insisting instead on providing a comprehensive explanation of the government's position and efforts.
Accusations and Counterarguments Dominate Proceedings
Mukul Sangma placed blame on previous administrations for their failure to take decisive action on the ILP issue, a criticism that sparked heated verbal exchanges across the assembly floor. VPP legislator Ardent Basaiawmoit escalated tensions by directly questioning the government's sincerity, stating: "Why does the state want ILP? Because influx comes not only from foreigners but from outsiders. I would like a sincere reply whether the government is playing with the sentiment of the people."
Chief Minister Conrad Sangma firmly rejected these accusations, detailing his repeated written communications and personal meetings with both the Prime Minister and Union Home Minister regarding the ILP matter. Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong, who holds the parliamentary affairs portfolio, responded pointedly to Basaiawmoit: "If you are serious, you should go to Delhi. Stop the drama."
Speaker Calls for Civilized Discourse
Amid the escalating tensions, Speaker Thomas A Sangma intervened multiple times to remind legislators of parliamentary decorum. He urged all members to maintain civility during debates and engage in discussions "in a civilized manner," emphasizing the importance of respectful dialogue even on contentious issues affecting the state's future.
The ILP system, which regulates entry and residence of outsiders in certain northeastern states, has been a persistent demand in Meghalaya amid concerns about demographic changes and protection of indigenous rights. The budget session debate highlighted how this issue continues to dominate political discourse in the state, with legislators from across the spectrum demonstrating strong, often conflicting positions on the appropriate path forward.
