Cultural Nationalism in Northeast India

Due to various socio-economic causes, India's northeastern territory is internally engulfed in political turmoil spanning over decades. The area is almost like a cauldron of people of diverse cultures and backgrounds. This vast diversity has also contributed to this internal disharmony resulting in cross-cultural conflicts. Over the decades, numerous instances of rebellion, insurgency and ethnic violence have occurred in this area. The Nagaland war, fueled by the Naga and Bodo nationalism, are examples of this insurgency. Internal disputes and hostility added to this struggle with the widespread immigration from Bangladesh and Myanmar's fleeing from the state-sponsored oppression. This paper will demonstrate the importance of cultural identity in North East's perceived nationalism and how large-scale immigration, which often leads to economic stagnation in the country, aids the growth of cultural nationalism. The case study of Chakmas and Hajongs will be used to demonstrate this culture-based nationalism.