“The interplay of political mobilization, geographical challenges, and governance issues creates a fertile ground for insurgency in North East India.” Explain.

The North East region of India is marked by a complex web of conflicts and insurgencies driven by various socio-political factors. Among these, political mobilization by insurgents plays a critical role, as it creates a narrative of subjugation and injustice that resonates with local populations. This narrative is often rooted in historical grievances, leading to a collective identity that fuels the desire for autonomy or independence.
1. Social Imaginary and Identity – Insurgent groups construct a social imaginary that marks perceived political, ethnic, or cultural oppression. This construction legitimises their violent actions and attracts support from disillusioned youth. For example, groups like the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN) have effectively mobilised sentiments of ethnic pride and historical rights to garner support.
2. Porous Borders and Arms Trafficking – The porous nature of India’s borders with countries like Myanmar and Bangladesh facilitates the flow of arms and illegal drugs, further exacerbating the insurgency problem. The Golden Triangle, notorious for drug trafficking, has turned vulnerable youth into recruits for insurgent groups, who exploit their economic despair.
3. Geographical Challenges – The challenging geography of the region, characterised by hilly terrains and dense forests, provides insurgents with natural cover and strategic advantages. The Siliguri Corridor, a narrow land connection to the rest of India, complicates military responses and allows insurgents to operate with relative impunity.
4. Governance Issues – Poor governance, high unemployment, and prevalent poverty contribute to the insurgency. Ineffective government policies have failed to address the root causes of discontent, leading to demands for greater autonomy and self-determination among various ethnic groups.
Thus, the interplay of political mobilization, geographical challenges, and governance issues creates a fertile ground for insurgency in North East India, necessitating a multifaceted approach to conflict resolution.