GS Question

The north-eastern region of India has been plagued with armed insurgency for several decades. There are several major reasons for the survival of insurgency in this region:

1. Historical and cultural factors: The north-eastern region of India is highly diverse, comprising numerous ethnic groups with unique identities, languages, and histories. Many insurgent groups emerged due to grievances related to lack of political representation, cultural assimilation, and historical marginalization. These factors have fueled a sense of alienation and nourished the desire for self-determination, leading to the persistence of armed insurgency.

2. Economic factors: The region faces several economic challenges, including underdevelopment, unemployment, poverty, and inadequate infrastructure. These conditions provide fertile grounds for the recruitment of disillusioned youth into insurgent groups. The absence of significant economic opportunities, along with the flow of illegal activities like arms smuggling, drug trafficking, and extortion, further sustain the insurgency by providing financial resources to the armed groups.

3. Geographical factors: The north-eastern region is characterized by challenging geographical terrain, including dense forests, hilly areas, and riverine landscapes. These natural features make it difficult for security forces to establish effective control and conduct counter-insurgency operations. The rugged terrain also provides hideouts and sanctuaries for insurgents, allowing them to regroup, train, and launch attacks on security forces and civilians.

4. Cross-border dynamics: The region shares porous international borders with neighboring countries like Myanmar, Bangladesh, Bhutan, and China. This facilitates the movement of insurgents across borders, making it challenging for security forces to apprehend or neutralize them effectively. Insurgent groups often take advantage of cross-border safe havens and seek support from sympathetic groups or state sponsors across borders.

5. Political inaction and alienation: The lack of sustained political will and ineffective governance in addressing the concerns of the people in the region have contributed to the persistence of insurgency. Alienation and disillusionment among the population due to perceived neglect by the central government have allowed insurgent groups to garner support and sympathy. The failure to enact meaningful political reforms, offer dialogue, and address the root causes of insurgency has hindered efforts to resolve the conflict.

6. Inter-ethnic conflicts: Ethnic rivalries and tensions, often fueled by competing claims over land, resources, and political power, have exacerbated the insurgency in the region. The presence of multiple insurgent groups with differing objectives and interests further complicates the resolution of conflicts. Inter-ethnic violence and clashes frequently occur, perpetuating the cycle of insurgency and hindering efforts at peacebuilding.

In conclusion, the persistence of armed insurgency in the north-eastern region of India can be attributed to a combination of historical, economic, geographical, political, and inter-ethnic factors. Addressing these root causes requires a comprehensive and multi-dimensional approach, including political dialogue, socio-economic development, effective governance, and fostering a sense of inclusion and belonging among all communities in the region.