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.

GS 3
Internal Security
2025
15 Marks

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

    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)

YearAgreementGroups InvolvedKey Outcomes
2020Bodo Peace AccordABSU, NDFB factions1,615 cadres surrendered
2021Karbi Peace AccordKLNLF, UPDSAutonomy for Karbi areas
2023UNLF Peace AgreementUNLF (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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