Why has the MHA reimposed restrictions in three NE States?

Context: On December 17, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) reimposed the
Protected Area Regime (PAR) in the States of Manipur, Nagaland, and Mizoram to
restrict and monitor the movement of foreigners. From now on, foreigners
visiting the three States would have to seek prior permission and Protected
Area Permits (PAP) from the government. The circular stated that the relaxation
provided to the three States under the Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order, 1958
was being withdrawn with immediate effect. The PAP regime was lifted from
Manipur, Mizoram, and Nagaland in January 2011 to promote tourism. However, the
current security situation necessitated its reimposition. The permit typically
allows foreign nationals to stay for 10 days, with an option for extension, and
can be issued by the Union Home Ministry or concerned state authorities.

Key points

·       Overview: The move
ensures that foreigners visiting these states must secure the necessary PAP
under the Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order, 1958.

·       Protected
Area Permit (PAP): PAP is a special permit required by foreign
nationals to visit certain areas in India deemed sensitive due to their
proximity to international borders. These areas fall between the "Inner
Line" and the international borders as defined under the Foreigners
(Protected Areas) Order, 1958.

·       Covered
Area: The PAP regime covers entire or parts of states such as Arunachal
Pradesh, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu &
Kashmir, Rajasthan, and Uttarakhand.

·       Purpose
of the Protected Area Permit: The primary objectives of the PAP are-

Ø  National
Security - To regulate the entry of foreigners in sensitive areas near
international borders.

Ø  Preservation of
Local Communities - To protect indigenous populations and their unique
cultural heritage.

Ø  Environmental
Conservation - To minimize ecological disturbances in fragile regions.

·       Relevant
Acts and Regulations: Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order, 1958 –
Defines areas as protected and prescribes the requirement for obtaining PAP.

Foreigners
(Restricted Areas) Order, 1963 – Specifies Restricted Areas (such as Andaman
& Nicobar Islands and parts of Sikkim) requiring a Restricted Area Permit
(RAP).

·       Key
Features of the PAP Regime: Eligibility - Foreigners, except
Bhutanese citizens, need a PAP to enter and stay in these regions.

Permissible
Visits - Group tourists (minimum of two persons). Restricted tourist circuits/routes
specified in the permit.

Validity and
Compliance - PAP is valid only for the specified area, route, and time. Permit
holders cannot stay beyond the permit’s validity. Photocopies of the permit
must be deposited at entry and exit points.

Restrictions - Citizens of
Afghanistan, China, and Pakistan (and those of Pakistani origin) require prior
approval from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). Diplomats and officials
require special instructions from the Ministry of External Affairs.

Registration - Foreigners must
register with the Foreigners Registration Officer (FRO) of the district within
24 hours of arrival.