Conflict and the Question of Identity Crisis in North East India: Issues, Causes and Concern

Abstract

Ethnic conflict is a common phenomenon which occurs in every Nation and dates back to the history of human civilization. But sometimes, it has occurred due to Nationalistic patriotism. However, relative developmental differences, economic deprivation, discrimination by the ruling class, remoteness and isolation of various social groups and lack of representativeness in administration and difficulty in communicating grievances, non representation in the ruling Government can often lead to the conflict and violence in North East India. This paper attempts to highlight the basic issues of ethnic violence and to study the nature, trend and type of ethnic and insurgent conflict in North East States. North East India has occupied a very unique position in the politics of India. This multicultural society of North east India comprises of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Mizoram, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Tripura and Sikkim. There are various reasons like pending border disputes, insurgency problem and resources sharing disputes which have made these regions quite troublesome. North East India is the hub of various ethnic groups and community which belong to different social, cultural and linguistic identity. Moreover, the alienation of various ethnic people in various socio political sphere has lead to the emergence of ethnic conflict and violence in these regions. This paper will analyse the reasons behind these conflicts and its manifestations, outcomes and finally try to give some road maps to solution.