The Supreme Court granted an eight-week extension to Manipur government to file its response to a plea challenging the constitutionality of the state’s Inner Line Permit (ILP) System.
The petition, filed by the organization Amra Bangalee, contended that the ILP system, introduced through the Adaptation of Laws (Amendment) Order 2019, restricts the movement and activities of non-residents in Manipur, including their ability to enter or conduct business without obtaining a permit.
A bench comprising Justice Hrishikesh Roy and Justice SVN Bhatti on Wednesday granted the extension at the request of the state’s counsel.
The plea sought a declaration that applying the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulations (BEFR), 1873, to Manipur, is unconstitutional, alleging violations of Articles 14, 15, 19, and 21 of the Constitution.
The petition highlights that the ILP system was extended to Manipur in 2019 following the enactment of the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), which exempted ILP areas from its purview. It claims that the BEFR, originally enacted during British rule to protect colonial commercial interests, was inappropriately adapted for modern-day governance.
The petitioner argued that the ILP system imposes “unbridled and unqualified” restrictions on the fundamental rights of non-indigenous individuals and residents, hindering social integration, economic development, and tourism which is a significant revenue source for the state.
A separate bench comprising Justice Abdul Nazeer and Justice Krishna Murari had issued notice on the petition in January 2022, with the Union Government subsequently filed a counter affidavit.
The plea challenged the use of colonial-era laws, stating that the BEFR 1873, enacted to monopolize British interests and restrict Indian traders, now unjustly curtails constitutional freedoms under the guise of protecting tribal areas.
The petitioner labelled the ILP system as “draconian” and argued that it obstructs technological advancement and national unity in the region.
The matter will be taken up after eight weeks after the Manipur Government submits its response.
