Identify the causes of tribal unrest with special reference to North-East India.

Historical and Socio-Political Roots of Unrest

The British colonial administration played a significant role in disrupting traditional tribal systems and creating conditions for future unrest. The introduction of the concept of ‘state’ land ownership, coupled with the imposition of forest laws, led to widespread land alienation and the erosion of traditional resource management practices. Post-independence, the failure to adequately address these historical grievances and integrate tribal communities into the mainstream political process further exacerbated tensions.

Key Causes of Tribal Unrest in North-East India

1. Land Alienation and Resource Control

Land is central to the socio-economic and cultural life of most tribal communities. The encroachment of non-tribal populations, often facilitated by government policies promoting migration for economic development, has led to displacement and loss of livelihood. The exploitation of natural resources – minerals, forests, and water – without adequate compensation or benefit-sharing mechanisms has also fueled resentment. For example, the protests against the proposed Greenfield Airport in Hollongi, Arunachal Pradesh, were driven by concerns over land acquisition and environmental impact.

2. Political Marginalization and Demand for Autonomy

Many tribal communities feel inadequately represented in the political system and lack effective mechanisms to voice their concerns. This has led to demands for greater political autonomy, ranging from the creation of new states to the strengthening of existing Autonomous District Councils (ADCs). The Naga insurgency, for instance, has long been driven by the demand for a separate Naga nation (Nagalim). Similarly, the Bodo movement in Assam sought a separate Bodo state to protect their cultural identity and socio-economic interests, culminating in the creation of Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR) in 2020.

3. Socio-Economic Disparities and Lack of Development

Despite the presence of numerous development programs, many tribal areas in North-East India continue to lag behind in terms of education, healthcare, and infrastructure. Limited access to employment opportunities, coupled with widespread poverty and unemployment, contributes to frustration and resentment. The lack of effective implementation of development schemes and corruption further exacerbate these problems.

4. Identity and Cultural Preservation

Tribal communities are deeply attached to their unique cultural identities, languages, and traditions. Perceived threats to these identities, often stemming from the influence of dominant cultures and the imposition of external norms, can trigger unrest. The demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status by various communities, such as the Meitei in Manipur, is often driven by a desire to protect their cultural heritage and access affirmative action benefits.

5. Impact of Development Projects

Large-scale development projects, such as dams, mining operations, and infrastructure development, often have significant negative impacts on tribal communities, leading to displacement, environmental degradation, and loss of livelihood. The lack of adequate environmental impact assessments and resettlement and rehabilitation (R&R) plans further exacerbates these problems. The protests against the Lower Subansiri Hydroelectric Project in Arunachal Pradesh exemplify this issue.

Regional Variations in Tribal Unrest

The causes and manifestations of tribal unrest vary across different states in North-East India:

• Nagaland: Primarily driven by the Naga nationalist movement and the demand for greater autonomy.
• Assam: Characterized by ethnic conflicts between different tribal groups (Bodos, Karbis, Dimasas) and the issue of illegal immigration.
• Manipur: Marked by ethnic tensions between the Meitei and tribal communities (Kukis, Nagas), particularly over land rights and political representation.
• Mizoram: Historically affected by insurgency, now relatively peaceful but with underlying issues of identity and socio-economic development.
• Arunachal Pradesh: Concerns over land alienation, environmental degradation, and the impact of development projects.

Government Responses and Challenges

The government has implemented various measures to address tribal unrest, including the establishment of ADCs, the implementation of development programs, and the negotiation of peace accords with insurgent groups. However, these efforts have often been hampered by a lack of political will, inadequate funding, and poor implementation. The complex nature of the issues and the multiplicity of stakeholders also pose significant challenges.