The Home Commissioner of Nagaland has initiated a new mechanism to keep track of the indigenous inhabitants of the state. A notification has been released to solidify this effort by establishing the Register of Indigenous Inhabitants of Nagaland (RIIN). The central objective of this process is to develop a comprehensive list of all indigenous inhabitants while also curbing the distribution of counterfeit indigenous inhabitant credentials. The creation of the RIIN kick-started on the 10th of July, 2019 with an estimated completion date within the next 60 days.
The Procedure of RIIN Development
The development of the RIIN requires an intensive survey that utilizes a village-centric and ward-based compilation of indigenous inhabitants, all validated by official data. The entire process will be monitored under the thorough supervision of each district’s administrative body.
Post-RIIN Conditions for Indigenous Inhabitant Certificate
Once the RIIN reaches completion, issuance of new indigenous inhabitant certificates will be halted. An exception will be made only for children born to Nagaland’s indigenous inhabitants post-RIIN establishment. These children will be rendered indigenous inhabitant certificates concurrently with their birth certificates.
Integration of the RIIN with Inner-Line Permit System
The RIIN database will undergo periodic updates to ensure accurate record-keeping. Another significant feature of RIIN is its integration with the Inner-Line Permit online system. This is a provisional document required by non-inhabitants for entry and travel within Nagaland.
Comparison to National Register of Citizens (NRC)
| Factors | RIIN | NRC |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | To create a list of indigenous inhabitants | To identify and eliminate illegal immigrants |
| Issuing Authority | Home Commissioner of Nagaland | Government of Assam |
| Document Requirement | Village-wise and ward-wise data based on official records | Proof of residency prior to 24th March 1971 |
| Linkage with other systems | Linked with Inner-Line Permit system | No such linkage |
RIIN has been perceived as a variant of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) which is currently being updated by the state of Assam. The key purpose of NRC is to identity and eradicate illegal immigrants within Assam.
Concluding Remarks on RIIN
The introduction of RIIN by the Home Commissioner of Nagaland is a significant step towards regulating indigenous inhabitant certificates and ensuring proper identification of the original inhabitants. The complete integration of the RIIN and the Inner-Line Permit system further simplifies the process for indigenous people and non-inhabitants alike. While it bears similarities to the NRC, the fundamental aim of RIIN is different, focusing more on indigenous inhabitants rather than immigrants.
