INDEX

Sr. no                Content                          Page no

1.                Introduction                            05

2.                Unrest in Punjab                    08

3.                Operation Blue Star              09

4.                Issues in North-East              10

5.                Mizoram                                   12

6.                Nagaland                                  16

 INDEX

Sr. no                Content                          Page no

7.                 Assam                                        20

8.                 Arunachal Pradesh               24

9.                 Naxalism                                  28

10.               Communalism                        32

11.               Regionalism                            36

12.               References                               40

India, a nation celebrated for its cultural diversity and democratic values, has faced internal unrest throughout its history. From regional conflicts and social movements to political upheavals and communal tensions, these challenges have shaped the nation’s socio-political landscape. 

This e-book explores the complexities of India’s internal unrest, examining its causes, impacts, and the ongoing quest for harmony and stability.

PUNJAB

 The Unrest in Punjab 

The unrest in Punjab during the 1980s was rooted in political, social, and religious tensions. It emerged from demands for greater autonomy and the recognition of Punjabi as a distinct cultural and linguistic identity. The Anandpur Sahib Resolution, proposed by the Akali Dal, sought increased state power and religious rights, intensifying political friction with the central government.

Religious tensions escalated as militant Sikh groups, led by Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale, gained influence, advocating for the creation of a separate Sikh state, Khalistan. This movement led to increased violence, communal tensions, and political instability in Punjab.

Operation Blue Star was a military operation conducted by the Indian government from June 1 to June 8, 1984, to eliminate armed militants led by Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale from the Golden Temple complex in Amritsar, Punjab. The operation aimed to curtail the growing insurgency and restore order in the state.

The Indian Army, under the leadership of General Kuldip Singh Brar, launched the offensive, which involved heavy artillery and armored vehicles. The operation resulted in extensive damage to the Golden Temple, including harm to the Akal Takht, a sacred Sikh shrine. This led to widespread outrage within the Sikh community worldwide, causing deep emotional and cultural wounds.

Operation Blue Star

Northeast India, comprising eight states, faces complex issues rooted in ethnic diversity, historical grievances, and geopolitical challenges. Insurgency and separatist movements have emerged due to demands for autonomy and ethnic identity preservation. Border disputes, illegal immigration, and resource conflicts further contribute to regional tensions. 

Socio-economic underdevelopment, inadequate infrastructure, and perceived political neglect have fueled feelings of alienation. Additionally, cultural assimilation concerns and identity politics influence social dynamics.

Issues in North-east

Mizoram experienced significant political unrest and armed movements in the mid-20th century, primarily due to ethnic identity issues and demands for autonomy. 

The Mizo National Front (MNF), led by Laldenga, emerged in response to the inadequate relief measures during the Mautam famine of 1959. The MNF sought independence from India, leading to insurgency and armed conflict throughout the 1960s and 1970s.

 Mizoram

The Indian government responded with military operations, and the region was declared a "disturbed area" under the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act. The conflict resulted in loss of life, displacement, and widespread socio-economic disruption.

However, after years of negotiations, peace was achieved through the Mizo Peace Accord signed on June 30, 1986. The MNF renounced secessionist demands, and Mizoram was granted statehood on February 20, 1987.

The Mizoram Peace Accord, 1986 was an official agreement between the Government of India and the Mizo National Front (MNF) to end insurgency and violence in Mizoram, India, that started in 1966.

Nagaland has a history of political unrest rooted in ethnic identity and demands for sovereignty. The Naga nationalist movement began under the leadership of Angami Zapu Phizo, who founded the Naga National Council (NNC), seeking an independent Naga state. 

This led to the formation of the Naga Federal Government and an armed insurgency against India in the 1950s. In response, the Indian government enacted the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), intensifying conflict.

 Nagaland 

The Shillong Accord of 1975 brought temporary peace, but factions like the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN) continued the struggle. The NSCN split into factions, including NSCN (IM) and NSCN (K), with the former leading peace talks. In 1997, NSCN (IM) signed a ceasefire agreement, leading to ongoing negotiations for a Naga Peace Accord, which remains unresolved. 

Issues of territorial integration, ethnic identity, and autonomy continue to impact Nagaland's socio-political landscape.

Naga secessionist groups regard him as the "Father of the Naga Nation".

Assam has faced political unrest due to ethnic identity, migration, and resource control. The Assam Movement (1979-1985), led by the All Assam Students' Union (AASU), demanded the expulsion of illegal immigrants, leading to communal tensions. The agitation culminated in the Assam Accord of 1985, which promised the detection and deportation of illegal immigrants but left unresolved issues of citizenship and identity.

The United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) emerged in 1979, seeking an independent Assam, leading to armed insurgency and clashes with security forces. 

   Assam

The group targeted government installations and economic infrastructure, impacting regional stability. Splits within ULFA led to factions pursuing peace talks, while others continued militancy. 

Ethnic conflicts involving Bodos, Karbis, Dimasas, and other tribes over territorial and political rights have also contributed to violence. The creation of the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) provided partial autonomy but did not fully resolve ethnic disputes. Assam continues to face challenges of illegal immigration, identity politics, and ethnic insurgency.

Arunachal Pradesh, strategically located along the India-China border, faces political challenges linked to ethnic diversity, territorial disputes, and insurgency spillovers from neighboring states. 

The state has over 26 major tribes, leading to ethnic tensions and demands for autonomy. Additionally, China's territorial claims over Arunachal Pradesh, referring to it as "South Tibet," contribute to geopolitical tension and militarization of the border.

 Arunachal Pradesh

Insurgency in Arunachal Pradesh is primarily due to its proximity to Nagaland and Assam. Militant groups like NSCN (IM), NSCN (K), and ULFA use the state as a transit route and hideout, impacting local security. Political instability, underdevelopment, and allegations of corruption have also fueled discontent among tribal communities.

Ethnic conflicts, particularly in the Tirap, Changlang, and Longding districts, are exacerbated by rivalries between Naga factions seeking influence. Arunachal Pradesh remains sensitive to regional insurgency dynamics, requiring balanced security measures and socio-economic development to maintain stability.