Drug trafficking has become a major source of funding for armed groups in the north east and contributes to the continuance of militancy in the region.
India’s two core national security objectives of territorial integrity and sovereignty can be better achieved through individual progress and overall societal happiness especially of its ethnic minorities.
India must revitalise, implement and act on infrastructure and economic development projects in the North East to build its relationship and harness the energy potential in Myanmar.
While the study of electoral politics in the North East explains how democracy can absorb former rebels, it fails to answer the critical question of the victims’ right to justice.
The NSCN (IM) leadership's acceptance of Indian passports reflects a significant shift from its earlier political posture of an independent sovereign Naga homeland.
Countering ideological narratives, effective communication of developmental measures to the people, and adherence to the principle of judicious use of force should form integral elements of India's strategy to counter insurgent and terrorist groups.
The time has come for citizens of Assam, Manipur and Nagaland to stand up against the negative culture of ‘bandhs’ issued by armed groups who invariably represent only themselves, and hold their state governments accountable for poor governance.
Only social cohesion and determination by local communities to bring about peace can realistically tide over vested political interests and narrow destructive narratives that seem to be informing the present crisis between Manipur and Nagaland.
