Karbi Anglong violence: Mobile net services restored in Assam districts as situation improves, say Officials

The recent violence in West Karbi Anglong district of Assam, resulting in two fatalities and over 170 injuries, predominantly among security personnel, underscores the persistent internal security challenges faced by India's North-Eastern region. The subsequent restoration of mobile internet services signals an improvement in the immediate law and order situation, but the underlying issues demand a deeper examination for a comprehensive understanding.

**Background Context and Historical Roots:**

Assam's Karbi Anglong district, a significant part of the state, has a complex history marked by ethnic diversity, demands for greater autonomy, and occasional violence. The region is predominantly inhabited by the Karbi tribe, along with other tribal and non-tribal communities. Historically, the demand for a separate Karbi state or greater autonomy within Assam has been a recurring theme, fueled by perceptions of neglect, cultural erosion, and a desire for self-governance over land, resources, and identity. This aspiration led to the creation of the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC) under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution, aiming to grant significant administrative and legislative powers to the tribal population. However, such councils often become focal points for inter-ethnic tensions or renewed demands for further autonomy, leading to clashes over administrative boundaries, resource control, and political representation.

**What Happened:**

The article highlights an incident of violence in parts of West Karbi Anglong district. While the specific trigger for the recent clashes is not detailed, such events in the North-East are often rooted in land disputes, inter-community rivalries, protests against government policies, or attempts by insurgent groups to assert dominance. The fact that a large number of those injured were security personnel suggests a confrontation with organized groups or a highly charged mob, indicating a breakdown of law and order that necessitated a robust security response. The imposition and subsequent lifting of mobile internet restrictions are standard measures employed by authorities to prevent the spread of misinformation, curb incitement to violence, and restore peace.

**Key Stakeholders Involved:**

* **Local Communities:** The Karbi tribe and other ethnic groups residing in Karbi Anglong are direct stakeholders, often bearing the brunt of violence and having their daily lives disrupted. Their aspirations for development and security are paramount.

* **Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC):** As the self-governing body, the KAAC plays a crucial role in administration, development, and maintaining peace. Its effectiveness and legitimacy are often tested during such crises.

* **Assam State Government:** Responsible for maintaining law and order, providing security, and ensuring the welfare of all citizens. It works in conjunction with the KAAC and the central government.

* **Central Government of India:** Provides financial assistance, security forces, and policy guidance for the North-Eastern states. Its Act East Policy emphasizes peace and development in the region for broader economic integration.

* **Security Forces:** Including the state police, paramilitary forces (like CRPF), and sometimes the Army, they are on the frontline to control violence, protect civilians, and restore normalcy. Their significant injury toll underscores the intensity of the clashes.

* **Organized Groups/Insurgents:** While not explicitly named, the nature of the violence often points to the involvement of groups advocating for specific ethnic or political agendas, sometimes resorting to arms.

**Significance for India:**

This incident is highly significant for India's internal security and national integration. The North-Eastern region is strategically vital, sharing borders with several countries. Instability here can have geopolitical ramifications, impacting border security and regional trade. Ethnic violence undermines social cohesion, hinders economic development, and erodes trust in governance. The repeated deployment of security forces and imposition of internet shutdowns highlight the ongoing challenges to peace and normalcy, which are essential for the success of initiatives like the Act East Policy, aiming to transform the North-East into a gateway for trade with Southeast Asia. It also brings into focus the challenges of federalism and the effective functioning of autonomous bodies under the Sixth Schedule.

**Constitutional Provisions and Policies:**

The governance of Karbi Anglong falls primarily under the **Sixth Schedule** of the Indian Constitution, specifically **Article 244(2)** and **Article 275(1)**, which provide for the administration of tribal areas in Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram through Autonomous District Councils (ADCs). The KAAC enjoys legislative, executive, and judicial powers over various subjects, including land, forest, primary education, and local administration. However, the extent of autonomy and control over resources often becomes a point of contention. **Article 371B** also makes special provisions with respect to the State of Assam, allowing the President to provide for the constitution and functions of a Committee of the Legislative Assembly of the State consisting of members of that Assembly elected from the tribal areas. Furthermore, the Central Government's approach to internal security in the region often involves the **Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958 (AFSPA)**, which grants special powers to armed forces in 'disturbed areas', although its application is contentious and subject to periodic review. The government's broader policy framework for the North-East focuses on dialogue, development, and deterrence, attempting to address the root causes of unrest while maintaining law and order.

**Future Implications:**

The restoration of mobile services is a positive step, but lasting peace requires a multi-pronged approach. Future implications include the need for continued dialogue between various ethnic groups and the state government, robust implementation of development projects to address economic disparities, and strengthening the capabilities of autonomous councils. Resolving boundary disputes, ensuring fair resource distribution, and promoting inclusive governance will be critical. The central and state governments will likely continue to focus on intelligence gathering, community policing, and targeted interventions to prevent recurrence of violence, ensuring that the North-East can fully participate in and benefit from India's growth story.