What are the major challenges to internal security and peace process in the North-Eastern States? Map the various peace accords and agreements initiated by the government in the past decade.
What are the major challenges to internal security and peace process in the North-Eastern States? Map the various peace accords and agreements initiated by the government in the past decade.
The 2023-24 Manipur ethnic violence and cross-border infiltration have intensified Northeast India's security challenges despite multiple peace accords signed in the past decade.
Challenges to Internal Security in North-Eastern States
Ethnic and Communal Tensions:
- Meitei-Kuki clashes in Manipur (2023-24): Over 200 deaths, 60,000+ displaced (MHA data, 2024).
- Inter-tribal conflicts over Scheduled Tribe status and land rights.
- Religious polarization between Christian tribals and Hindu valley communities.
- Identity-based politics fueling separatist sentiments.
- Competition for scarce resources among different ethnic groups.
Cross-Border Security Threats:
- 1,643 km porous international border with Myanmar, Bangladesh, and China.
- Illegal arms trafficking through Golden Triangle drug routes.
Golden Crescent and Golden Triangle
- Cross-border movement of ARSA militants from Myanmar.
- Rohingya infiltration creating demographic pressures.
- Chinese border infrastructure development challenging territorial integrity.
Insurgency and Militancy:
- Active presence of ULFA(I), NSCN factions, and PLA groups.
- Extortion networks affecting economic development.
- Recruitment of youth through social media and unemployment.
- Drug trafficking-insurgency nexus in border areas.
- Safe havens in neighboring countries enabling regrouping.
Peace Accords and Agreements (2014-2024)
| Year | Agreement | Groups Involved | Key Outcomes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | Bodo Peace Accord | ABSU, NDFB factions | 1,615 cadres surrendered |
| 2021 | Karbi Peace Accord | KLNLF, UPDS | Autonomy for Karbi areas |
| 2023 | UNLF Peace Agreement | UNLF (Manipur) | Valley's largest group joined mainstream |
Major Peace Initiatives:
- Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreements with 25+ Manipur groups.
- Framework Agreement with NSCN(IM) addressing Naga aspirations.
- Bru-Reang settlement rehabilitating 37,000+ displaced persons.
- NLFT(SD) surrender bringing peace to Tripura hills.
- Assam Rifles-civil administration coordination improving security.
Impact Assessment:
- 85% reduction in insurgency incidents since 2014.
- Over 11,000 militants surrendered through various accords.
- AFSPA relaxation in multiple districts of Assam, Manipur.
- ₹8,000 crore development package allocated post-agreements.
- Establishment of peace dividends through infrastructure projects.
The Comprehensive Integrated Border Management System and sustained dialogue approach represent India's commitment to lasting peace in the strategically vital Northeast region.
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