Extension of ban under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 is because of NSCN (K)‘s involvement in activities prejudicial to sovereignty and integrity of India.
- The group is actively involved in insurgent activities, extortion, and maintaining a nexus with other militant outfits in Nagaland and some other North-Eastern states.
Reasons for Insurgency in North-East
- Political Alienation: A post-colonial legacy of perceived neglect and limited political representation has fueled a sense of marginalization.
- Ethnic and Cultural Aspirations: Distinct tribal identities and their aspirations for autonomy have often manifested as armed movements.
- Development Deficit: Lack of economic opportunities, inadequate infrastructure, and high unemployment rates
- Geopolitical Factors: E.g. challenging terrain, porous international borders with Myanmar and Bangladesh facilitate easy movement of insurgents, arms and contraband.
Steps taken by the Government
- Peace and Dialogue: E.g. engaging through peace accords, such as Mizo Peace Accord (1986) and Bodo Peace Accord (2020)
- Inter-State Boundary Agreements: Resolved long-standing disputes. For example: Assam and Arunachal Pradesh (2023) and Assam and Meghalaya (2022)
- Constitutional provisions: E.g. 5th & 6th schedule Provisions, Special status to Nagaland under article 371 (A) etc.
- Developmental Initiatives: E.g. through Schemes like PM-DevINE and increased funding for the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (MDoNER)
A balanced approach combining sustained dialogue, accelerated development, stronger border management and community participation is essential to achieve lasting peace and integration in the North-East.
