The Unity of Northeastern States in India: Ethnic Differences and National Identity

India, a vast and diverse nation, is home to numerous ethnic, linguistic, and religious communities. This diversity is often a subject of discussion, and concerns have been raised regarding the ability of the Indian state to hold onto certain regions, particularly the northeastern states such as Mizoram, Nagaland, and Manipur. These territories, while ethnically distinct from the majority of Indians, continue to be integral parts of the Republic of India.

India: A Nation of Diversity

There is no unified "Indian DNA," as the country is characterized by its vast diversity. This diversity is not unique to the northeastern states but is found throughout the length and breadth of the country. Regions like Punjab, Bihar, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, and others also have their distinct ethnicities and cultural identities. The very essence of Indian nationhood lies in the ability to coexist despite these differences.

Indian Nationhood and Ethnic Differences

Indian nationhood is rooted in the shared values, history, and traditions of its people. While it is natural for regions to maintain their unique identities, the unifying factor is the overarching sentiment of being Indian. The northeastern states, although ethnically different, have chosen to be part of the national narrative. They are, in the modern sense, "India." This idea is particularly relevant given the various ethnic, linguistic, and religious identities found across the country.

Historical Context and Challenges

Historically, the northeastern states have faced challenges, as seen during the Mizoram uprising in March 1966. At that time, the Baptist Christians of Mizoram, funded by the American Baptist Church, launched an open mass revolt on March 5, 1966. The incident was quickly quelled with the use of the Indian Air Force. The Revote was initially launched by the Baptist Christians, and it was put down with the support of the central government. This event, and the response to it, highlight the power dynamics at play and the role of regional governments in maintaining peace and stability.

Political Stability and National Unity

The northeastern region is a diverse patchwork of communities, including animists, Buddhists, and Hindus of Mongoloid descent, all of whom share a sense of being integral parts of India. Political stability in the region is crucial for maintaining this unity. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), a major political party in India, has a growing presence and support in the northeast, with prominent figures like Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma leading the charge. Sarma, known for his tough stance against illegal immigrants, is regarded as one of the potential future leaders of India.

Future Perspectives

It is likely that in the coming decade, Assamese voices will continue to gain prominence in national politics, potentially leading to scenarios where an Assamese person could become the Prime Minister of India. The reaction of the northeastern population to such a development is central to the ongoing narrative of unity. Given the mutual respect and shared goals among different communities, it is reasonable to expect that such a change would not adversely affect national unity.

The northeastern states have shown their commitment to the Indian nation by their consistent support for the BJP. In elections, Assam, for instance, has largely voted for the BJP, with only a small opposition from Muslim communities. This highlights the deep-rooted sense of national identity amongst these communities, despite their unique ethnic and cultural backgrounds.

In conclusion, the northeastern states, like any other region in India, have a choice to either strive for unity and shared goals or struggle with fragmentation. The historical and political context, as well as ongoing developments, suggest that India's northeast remains an integral part of the national narrative, rooted in national identity and shared values.