Two American nationals were deported from Mizoram after landing at Lengpui Airport without the mandatory Protected Area Permit (PAP), officials confirmed on Saturday. The individuals identified as Walter Frederick Kuhn and Sharon Clodfelter Kuhn arrived at Lengpui Airport on May 2, unaware of the reintroduced PAP requirement for foreign nationals visiting the northeastern state. On being detained by immigration authorities at the airport for failing to produce the required documents, the duo was deported via an Indigo flight to New Delhi later that day. According to government sources, the PAP was reinstated in Mizoram on December 17, 2024, after being inactive for nearly 14 years. Since its reimplementation, the state government has reportedly circulated information to Indian missions abroad and ensured that airlines flying to Mizoram announce the requirement to passengers prior to departure.
“Despite notifications to embassies and pre-boarding announcements by airlines, the two individuals did not carry the necessary permits,” said an official familiar with the matter. “All foreigners visiting Mizoram are now expected to comply strictly with the PAP requirement.” Before the reactivation of the PAP, foreign tourists could enter Mizoram using a standard Indian visa and were required to report to the state’s Crime Investigation Department (Special Branch) within 24 hours of arrival. However, the restoration of PAP mandates prior approval before entry. Officials clarified that the deportation was a procedural measure, and no further legal action was pursued against the two individuals, as the oversight was likely unintentional. Nevertheless, the incident serves as a reminder to foreign travelers to ensure compliance with India’s travel regulations, especially when visiting states with special entry restrictions.
The Protected Area Permit system is part of India’s internal security framework, applicable to certain northeastern states and border areas. It is intended to regulate the movement of foreign nationals in sensitive regions and ensure coordination with local authorities. Meanwhile, for Indian citizens, entry into Mizoram is also regulated. Non-residents must obtain an Inner Line Permit (ILP), which is available at Lengpui Airport upon arrival for an initial stay of seven days. The ILP can be extended with proper documentation and a local sponsor.
