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Manipur: 9 arrested for issuing fake ILP cards, CM Biren Singh orders SIT probe

Manipur: 9 arrested for issuing fake ILP cards, CM Biren Singh orders SIT probe

Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh said at least nine people, including government officials, have been arrested for their alleged involvement in a scam related to the issuance of Inner Line Permit (ILP) cards in the northeastern state.

The alleged scam, which took place at five different locations across the state, allegedly involved the issuance of approximately 3,500 counterfeit ILP cards intended for employment authorization.

Among those arrested were an official from the lower division of the Ministry of Labour and an official from the district collector’s office.

The Manipur Inner Line Permit (ILP) is an official travel document issued by the state government that allows Indian citizens to visit the scenic state of Manipur for a specified period.

Speaking to reporters in Imphal, Singh expressed deep concern over the alleged scam. He revealed that suspicions of involvement of senior officials and businessmen had prompted the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the matter thoroughly.

“The government has strictly authorised only DCs and Labour Commissioners to issue ILP cards. However, it has come to light that unauthorised personnel were also handling these sensitive cases,” Singh said.

“Following investigation, it was found that approximately 3,500 ILPs were prepared through the five establishments that were raided and arrests were made. During the raid, certain items including computers and laptops were seized,” he added.

The raids were conducted by Manipur police at five locations, namely a computer centre at Namdulong, a mobile repair shop at Kakulong, a mobile shop at Thangal Bazar, a computer centre near Babupara DC Bungalow and a reception counter at RIMS road. Substantial evidence was recovered.

Police have seized documents from approximately 3,500 illegally issued ILP cards, revealing a well-coordinated operation to deceive authorities and abuse the ILP system.

The Prime Minister pointed out the loopholes in the enforcement of the ILP regulations and stressed that some officials have neglected the mandatory base year of December 31, 1961, which determines the admissibility of ILPs.

“This lax implementation has contributed significantly to the current crisis. We must address this with utmost seriousness,” Singh said.

Following the discovery, notices have been sent to all police stations with photographs of the alleged holders of fake ILP cards. The Chief Minister called on all perpetrators to surrender and avoid legal consequences, and offered them a chance to voluntarily rectify their actions.

To strengthen the effectiveness of the ILP administration in Manipur, Singh ordered strict action at all counters in the state.

“The ILP was a gift from the central government, led by PM Modi and Amit Shah, to protect the indigenous people. Failure to maintain its integrity would be a disservice to this noble cause,” he added.

Published on:

July 20, 2024