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Assam separatist movements

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+#REDIRECT [[Assam separatist movements]]
-{{Short description|Proposed independent state in Northeast India}}
-{{Use dmy dates|date=April 2024}}
-{{Infobox country
-| conventional_long_name = Swadhin Axom
-| common_name = Swadhin Axom
-| image_flag = Flag of United Liberation Front of Asom.svg
-| symbol_type = Seal
-| national_motto = Joi Aai Axom <br> Victory to Mother Assam
-| national_anthem = ''O Mor Aponar Dex''<br/>{{centre|[[File:O-Mur-Apunar-Desh -ll-State-Anthem-of-Assam-ll-Kalmawizo-Hmar.ogg|thumb|Anthem of assam]]}}
-| image_map =
-| status = '''Proposed Country''': Independence Movement
-| capital = [[Dispur]]
-| largest_city = [[Guwahati]]
-| languages_type = Official languages
-| languages = [[Assamese language|Assamese]], [[English language|English]]
-| government_type = [[Federalism|Federal]] [[Republic|republic]]
-| leader_title1 =
-| leader_name1 =
-| event1 =
-| date_event1 =
-| event2 =
-| date_event2 =
-| legislature =
-| area_km2 =
-| population_estimate =
-| population_estimate_year =
-}}
+{{R from merge}}
-'''Swadhin Axom''' (Independent Assam) is a proposed independent state in [[Northeast India]], primarily inhabited by the Assamese people. <ref>{{Cite thesis |last=Dhar |first=Ivy |date=2001 |title=Identity, Group-Conflict and Subnationalism: The Assam Experience |url=http://etd.lib.jnu.ac.in/TH9161.pdf |degree=MPhil |publisher=Jawaharlal Nehru University}}</ref>The concept of Swadhin Axom stems from the historical and cultural distinctiveness of Assam and the desire of its people for self-determination and sovereignty. <ref>{{Cite journal |last=Haloi |first=Nipan |date=July 2017 |title=Dream for Sovereignty in Assam: A study of ULFA |url=https://www.ijhsss.com/files/33.-nipon-haloi.pdf |journal=International Journal of Humanities & Social Science Studies}}</ref>The region is currently a part of the Indian state of [[Assam]].<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Dutta |first=Angkita |last2=Laisram |first2=Dr Rena |date=2018 |title=Women Cadres in ULFA Insurgency: A Gender Perspective |url=http://www.irjmsh.com/Artical_details?&id=7613}}</ref>
-== History ==
-The history of [[Assam]] is characterized by a rich cultural heritage and a long-standing struggle for autonomy.<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Misra |first=Udayon |date=2000 |editor-last=Baruah |editor-first=Sanjib |title=Sub-National Challenges to Indian State: An Assamese Perspective |url=https://www.jstor.org/stable/4409292 |journal=Economic and Political Weekly |volume=35 |issue=20 |pages=1727–1730 |issn=0012-9976}}</ref> The Ahom Kingdom, which ruled Assam for several centuries, is renowned for its administrative prowess and cultural contributions. Many assamese feel that assam became Indian, only because of the British. <ref>{{Cite book |last=Khanikar |first=Santana |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=GzxsDwAAQBAJ&pg=PT359&lpg=PT359&dq=swadhin+axom&source=bl&ots=c2Jy8n61_T&sig=ACfU3U3xm5cho9-5QD1yPSc8X4Mj-N1iyA&hl=en&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjq0crvyuaGAxVaGlkFHevjDxs4FBDoAXoECAcQAw |title=State, Violence, and Legitimacy in India |date=2018-04-26 |publisher=Oxford University Press |isbn=978-0-19-909202-4 |language=en}}</ref>However, with the advent of British colonial rule in the 19th century, Assam's political landscape underwent significant changes.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Incidents involving United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA): 2010-2012 - Terrorist Group of Assam |url=https://www.satp.org/satporgtp/countries/india/states/assam/terrorist_outfits/ULFA_tl.htm |access-date=2024-06-19 |website=www.satp.org}}</ref>
-The [[Assam Movement]], which began in the late 1970s and culminated in the signing of the [[Assam Accord]] in 1985, was a pivotal moment in the region's quest for self-determination. <ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-12-26 |title=1979-85 Assam agitation: A pure agenda |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/magazine/youth-movements/story/20220103-1979-85-assam-agitation-a-pure-agenda-1892289-2021-12-25 |access-date=2024-06-19 |website=India Today |language=en}}</ref>Led by organizations like the [[All Assam Students' Union]] (AASU) <ref>{{Cite journal |last=Basumatary |first=Jadav Chandra |date=2022 |title=The Assam Movement and its Political impact in Assam |url=https://journal.lgcollege.ac.in/issue/vol_2/issue_2/Paper_1_by_JC_Basumatary.pdf |journal=Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences |volume=2 |issue=2}}</ref>and the All Assam Gana Sangram Parishad (AAGSP), the movement demanded the identification and deportation of illegal immigrants, primarily from [[Bangladesh]], and sought to safeguard the socio-cultural identity of the [[Assamese people]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Assam History {{!}} Assam State Portal |url=https://assam.gov.in/about-us/394 |access-date=2024-06-19 |website=assam.gov.in}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=The Assam movement was a combination of cultural pride and economic backwardness. Explain. |url=https://byjus.com/question-answer/the-assam-movement-was-a-combination-of-cultural-pride-and-economic-backwardness-explain/ |access-date=2024-06-19 |website=byjus.com |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Assam Movement: Everything You Need To Know For UPSC CSE Exam! |url=https://testbook.com/ias-preparation/assam-movement |access-date=2024-06-19 |website=Testbook |language=en}}</ref>
-== Leaders of the Swadhin Axom Movement ==
-Throughout its history, the Swadhin Axom movement has been shaped by visionary leaders who have tirelessly advocated for the rights and aspirations of the [[Assamese people]].<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Weiner |first=Myron |date=1983 |title=The Political Demography of Assam's Anti-Immigrant Movement |url=https://www.jstor.org/stable/1973053 |journal=Population and Development Review |volume=9 |issue=2 |pages=279–292 |doi=10.2307/1973053 |issn=0098-7921}}</ref> <ref>{{Cite journal |last=Gogoi |first=Pulak |last2=Missong |first2=Pabitra |date=2024-03-23 |title=The violence and the left: a study in the context of the Assam Movement (1979–85) |url=https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/14631369.2024.2331637 |journal=Asian Ethnicity |language=en |pages=1–19 |doi=10.1080/14631369.2024.2331637 |issn=1463-1369}}</ref>Figures like [[Bishnu Prasad Rabha]], <ref>{{Cite web |title=Kalaguru Bishnu Prasad Rabha {{!}} Bishnu Prasad Rabha {{!}} Rabha Sangeet {{!}} Freedom Fighters Of Assam |url=http://www.assaminfo.com/famous-people/45/kalaguru-bishnu-prasad-rabha.htm |access-date=2024-06-19 |website=www.assaminfo.com}}</ref>a multifaceted artist and social reformer, [[Tarun Ram Phukan]], a prominent political leader, and [[Prafulla Kumar Mahanta]], a key figure in the Assam Movement <ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-12-11 |title=Assam movement example of unity efforts: Sonowal - Optimize IAS |url=https://optimizeias.com/assam-movement-example-of-unity-efforts-sonowal/ |access-date=2024-06-19 |language=en-US}}</ref>and a former [[Chief Minister of Assam]], have played crucial roles in advancing the cause of Swadhin Axom.<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Gohain |first=Hiren |date=1982 |title=Once More on the Assam Movement |url=https://www.jstor.org/stable/3516861 |journal=Social Scientist |volume=10 |issue=11 |pages=58–62 |doi=10.2307/3516861 |issn=0970-0293}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Hussain |first=Monirul |url=https://books.google.com/books/about/The_Assam_Movement.html?id=szZuAAAAMAAJ |title=The Assam Movement: Class, Ideology, and Identity |date=1993 |publisher=Manak Publications |isbn=978-81-85445-29-8 |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Description: The Assam movement : :: Library Catalog |url=https://catalogtest.lib.uchicago.edu/vufind/Record/1552961/Description |access-date=2024-06-19 |website=catalogtest.lib.uchicago.edu |language=en}}</ref>
-== Assam's Engagement with India ==
-Assam's relationship with India has been characterized by periods of cooperation and conflict. <ref>{{Cite journal |last=Singh |first=M. Amarjeet |last2=Yihingle |date=2023 |title=The Three Decades of Look East Policy and India’s Northeast Region |url=http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/09735984231188410 |journal=Jadavpur Journal of International Relations |language=en |volume=27 |issue=2 |pages=212–235 |doi=10.1177/09735984231188410 |issn=0973-5984}}</ref>The region's strategic importance, owing to its abundant natural resources and geographical location, has made it a focal point of [[Indian government]] policies.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Development in Conflict Situation: A case of Assam |url=https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/57a08cdced915d3cfd001686/Banerjee.pdf}}</ref> However, issues such as resource exploitation, cultural preservation, and political representation have often led to tensions between Assam and the Indian government.<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Kakoty |first=Rukmini |date=2024-07-02 |title=Politics of photographs: construction and consolidation of identities during Assam movement |url=https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/14631369.2024.2326578 |journal=Asian Ethnicity |language=en |volume=25 |issue=3 |pages=417–437 |doi=10.1080/14631369.2024.2326578 |issn=1463-1369}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Understanding India’s Manipur Conflict and Its Geopolitical Implications |url=https://www.usip.org/publications/2023/06/understanding-indias-manipur-conflict-and-its-geopolitical-implications |access-date=2024-06-19 |website=United States Institute of Peace |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Conflict, conservation, and cooperation across the India-Bhutan border |url=https://www.brookings.edu/articles/sambandh-blog-conflict-conservation-and-cooperation-across-the-india-bhutan-border/ |access-date=2024-06-19 |website=Brookings |language=en-US}}</ref>
-== Exploitation of Resources ==
-Assam, known for its rich natural resources, has often faced challenges related to their exploitation and management by the Indian government.<ref>{{Cite web |title=STINER CSIR-NEIST |url=https://www.neist.res.in/stiner/assam.php |access-date=2024-06-19 |website=www.neist.res.in}}</ref> The state is endowed with abundant mineral resources, including oil, natural gas, coal, and limestone, making it a significant contributor to India's economy. <ref>{{Cite web |title=Harnesing Minerals {{!}} Directorate of Geology & Mining {{!}} Government Of Assam, India |url=https://dgm.assam.gov.in/resource/harnesing-minerals |access-date=2024-06-19 |website=dgm.assam.gov.in}}</ref><ref>{{Cite report |date=2020 |title=Concept Paper on Natural Resource Accounting in India - An Initiative of GASAB |url=https://gasab.gov.in/gasab/pdf/NR-Accounting.pdf |publisher=Government Accounting Standards Advisory Board Secretariat}}</ref>However, the extraction and utilization of these resources have been a point of contention due to issues of ownership, environmental degradation, and equitable distribution of revenues.
-The discovery of [[Digboi|oil in Assam]] in the late 19th century marked the beginning of industrialization in the region. The [[Digboi Refinery|Assam Oil Company]], later known as Oil India Limited, was established in 1889, and the Digboi oilfield became one of the oldest operational oilfields in the world. The exploitation of oil resources in Assam has played a crucial role in India's energy security. <ref>{{Cite web |title=Agitation Disrupts ONGC's Oil & Gas Production in Assam {{!}} Rigzone |url=https://www.rigzone.com/news/oil_gas/a/22596/agitation_disrupts_ongcs_oil_gas_production_in_assam/ |access-date=2024-06-19 |website=www.rigzone.com}}</ref>However, it has also led to environmental degradation, including oil spills, pollution, and land subsidence.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2020-05-23 |title=Forty Years Ago, May 23, 1980: Assam agitation |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/forty-years-ago-may-23-1980-assam-agitation-6422950/ |access-date=2024-06-19 |website=The Indian Express |language=en}}</ref>
-Natural gas is another significant resource found in Assam, with major reserves located in areas like Sivasagar, Jorhat, and Dibrugarh. <ref>{{Cite web |title=after-oil-well-fire-oils-production-hit-by-agitation |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/nation/2020/Jun/13/after-oil-well-fire-oils-production-hit-by-agitation-2156246.html}}</ref>The discovery of natural gas fields has led to the establishment of several gas-based industries in the state. However, the extraction and processing of natural gas have raised concerns about its impact on the environment and local communities.<ref>{{Cite web |title=The Wire: The Wire News India, Latest News,News from India, Politics, External Affairs, Science, Economics, Gender and Culture |url=https://thewire.in/politics/bjp-assam-oil-privatisation |access-date=2024-06-19 |website=thewire.in}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Singh |first=Bikash |date=2020-06-13 |title=OIL suffers 500 MT oil, 0.46 mmscmd gas loss post Assam incident |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/energy/oil-gas/oil-suffers-638-tonnes-oil-0-46-mmscmd-gas-loss-post-assam-incident/articleshow/76357044.cms?from=mdr |access-date=2024-06-19 |work=The Economic Times |issn=0013-0389}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=1987-04-15 |title=Oil India: Anti-Jatar movement gains momentum in Assam |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/magazine/economy/story/19870415-oil-india-anti-jatar-movement-gains-momentum-in-assam-798729-1987-04-14 |access-date=2024-06-19 |website=India Today |language=en}}</ref>
-The coal mines in Assam, particularly in the Makum coalfield, have been a source of livelihood for many locals. <ref>{{Cite journal |last=Kumar |first=Manish |last2=Srivastava |first2=Manish Kumar |last3=Kishor |first3=Kaushal |last4=Singh |first4=Alok K. |date=2023-08-14 |title=An Assessment of the Environmental Impact of Coal Mining through Acid Mine Drainage and Soil Degradation from Makum Coalfields, Upper Assam, India: A Case Study |url=https://link.springer.com/10.1007/s12594-023-2437-3 |journal=Journal of the Geological Society of India |language=en |volume=99 |issue=8 |pages=1113–1120 |doi=10.1007/s12594-023-2437-3 |issn=0974-6889}}</ref>However, the mining operations have been criticized for their environmental impact, including deforestation, air and water pollution, and land degradation.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2019-12-13 |title=Assam, North East to face fuel supply problems if citizenship agitation continues |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/assam-north-east-to-face-fuel-supply-problems-if-citizenship-agitation-continues/articleshow/72533279.cms?from=mdr |access-date=2024-06-19 |work=The Economic Times |issn=0013-0389}}</ref>
-The exploitation of resources in Assam has also been a source of political tension. The "'''Tez dim, tel nadim'''" (We will give you blood but no oil) slogan,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Desk |first=Sentinel Digital |date=2024-04-23 |title=Remembering Dulal Sarma who wrote ‘Tez Dim Tel Nidio’ with his blood |url=https://www.sentinelassam.com/north-east-india-news/assam-news/remembering-dulal-sarma-who-wrote-tez-dim-tel-nidio-with-his-blood |access-date=2024-06-19 |website=Sentinel Assam |language=en}}</ref> popularized by the All Assam Students' Union (AASU)<ref>{{Cite web |title=Memorial etched in martyr's blood - Column in memory of student activist unveiled in Guwahati |url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/north-east/memorial-etched-in-martyr-s-blood-column-in-memory-of-student-activist-unveiled-in-guwahati/cid/620792}}</ref> during the Assam Agitation (1979-1985), highlighted the demand for a fair share of the state's resources and revenue for its development. The slogan reflected the sentiment of many Assamese people who felt marginalized and exploited by the central government's policies.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Desk |first=Sentinel Digital |date=2023-01-19 |title=Martyrs of oil blockade agitation remembered at Duliajan |url=https://www.sentinelassam.com/north-east-india-news/assam-news/martyrs-of-oil-blockade-agitation-remembered-at-duliajan-633703 |access-date=2024-06-19 |website=Sentinel Assam |language=en}}</ref>
-== Human Rights Violations ==
-Assam has been plagued by several instances of human rights violations, including extrajudicial killings, rape, and other forms of violence, often attributed to the presence of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) in the region. <ref>{{Cite news |last=Basu |first=Sayak |date=2024-05-24 |title=A look at the status of AFSPA in northeast states |url=https://www.deccanherald.com/india/a-look-at-the-status-of-afspa-in-northeast-states-1221678.html |access-date=2024-06-19 |newspaper=Deccan Herald |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=‘Detainees Sharing Cells With Criminals’: Human Rights Violations in Assam’s Detention Centres |url=https://thewire.in/rights/detainees-sharing-cells-with-criminals-human-rights-violations-in-assams-detention-centres#:~:text=Due%20to%20the%20contentious%20issue,by%20detention%20and%20arbitrary%20arrest. |access-date=2024-06-19 |website=The Wire |language=en}}</ref>The Act, in force in Assam and other parts of Northeast India, grants special powers to the armed forces in areas deemed disturbed. While intended to maintain public order, AFSPA has been criticized for enabling impunity and human rights abuses.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Singh |first=Vijaita |date=2023-03-25 |title=After 2022, AFSPA further reduced in Assam, Manipur and Nagaland due to improved security situation: Amit Shah |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/modi-govt-decides-to-reduce-disturbed-areas-under-afspa-in-northeast-amit-shah/article66660544.ece |access-date=2024-06-19 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}</ref>
-=== Extrajudicial Killings and [[Secret Killings of Assam|Secret Killings]] ===
-One of the darkest chapters in Assam's recent history is the period of secret killings in the early 2000s. In the aftermath of the Assam Accord (1985), which aimed to resolve the issue of illegal immigration<ref>{{Cite web |title=Unheeded Hinterland: Identity and sovereignty in Northeast India 9781138100091, 9781315657820 |url=https://dokumen.pub/unheeded-hinterland-identity-and-sovereignty-in-northeast-india-9781138100091-9781315657820.html |access-date=2024-06-19 |website=dokumen.pub |language=en}}</ref>, a series of extrajudicial killings occurred, particularly in the town of Kakopathar.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Baishya |first=Amit R. |date=2014-03-01 |title=The ‘secret killings’ of Assam in literature |url=https://www.himalmag.com/culture/secret-killings-of-assam-in-literature |access-date=2024-06-19 |website=Himal Southasian |language=en}}</ref>These killings, allegedly carried out by state police and security forces<ref>{{Cite web |last=superadminbb |title=Secret Killings of Assam – Bhabani Books |url=https://bhabanibooks.com/product/secret-killings-of-assam/ |access-date=2024-06-19 |language=en-US}}</ref>, targeted suspected militants and their families without any judicial process. The victims included women and children, and the killings were often disguised as encounters.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-08-12 |title=The Killing Fields: A Photograph That Laid Bare Assam’s Dark Chapter Of 'Secret Killings' |url=https://www.outlookindia.com/national/the-killing-fields-a-photograph-that-laid-bare-assam-s-dark-chapter-of-secret-killings--magazine-213943 |access-date=2024-06-19 |website=Outlook India |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Bano |first=Saira |date=2024-04-09 |title=The Fallout of India’s Extrajudicial Killings |url=https://gjia.georgetown.edu/2024/04/09/the-fallout-of-indias-extrajudicial-killings/ |access-date=2024-06-19 |website=Georgetown Journal of International Affairs |language=en-US}}</ref>
-=== Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) ===
-The [[Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act]] has been a subject of controversy in Assam, with allegations of its misuse leading to widespread human rights abuses. <ref>{{Cite web |title="These Fellows Must Be Eliminated": Relentless Violence and Impunity in Manipur: V. The Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act |url=https://www.hrw.org/reports/2008/india0908/5.htm |access-date=2024-06-19 |website=www.hrw.org}}</ref>Under [[AFSPA]] , security forces have broad powers, including the authority to shoot to kill, conduct searches without warrants, and arrest individuals without formal procedures. <ref>{{Cite web |title=Briefing on The Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958 |url=https://www.amnesty.org/en/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/asa200252005en.pdf}}</ref>The Act has been criticized by human rights organizations for enabling impunity and creating a climate of fear and distrust among the civilian population.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) - UPSC Exam Preparation |url=https://byjus.com/free-ias-prep/understanding-the-armed-forces-special-powers-act/ |access-date=2024-06-19 |website=BYJUS |language=en}}</ref>
-=== Rape and Sexual Violence ===
-Instances of rape and [[sexual violence]]<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Kalra |first=Gurvinder |last2=Bhugra |first2=Dinesh |date=2013 |title=Sexual violence against women: Understanding cross-cultural intersections |journal=Indian Journal of Psychiatry |language=en |volume=55 |issue=3 |pages=244 |doi=10.4103/0019-5545.117139 |doi-access=free |issn=0019-5545 |pmid=24082244 |pmc=3777345}}</ref>, often involving security forces, have been reported in [[Assam]]. <ref>{{Cite web |title=INDIA: Pregnant woman raped by Indian Army soldiers |url=http://www.humanrights.asia/news/urgent-appeals/AHRC-UAC-108-2015/ |access-date=2024-06-19 |website=Asian Human Rights Commission |language=en-US}}</ref>These cases highlight the vulnerability of women in conflict-affected areas and the challenges they face in seeking justice. One such case involved the rape of a '''12-year-old girl''' by an army jawan<ref>{{Cite news |date=2003-11-27 |title=Jawans rape girl in Assam |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/jawans-rape-girl-in-assam/articleshow/325024.cms |access-date=2024-06-19 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}</ref> in Assam's Baksa district in 2015.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Correspondent |first=Special |date=2020-03-01 |title=Seven accused of raping minor in Assam are juveniles |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/seven-accused-of-raping-minor-in-assam-are-juveniles/article30959211.ece |access-date=2024-06-19 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}</ref> <ref>{{Cite web |title=RAPE: The Hated Weapon of The Indian Armed Forces {{!}} Assam Portal |url=https://www.assam.org/node/2381 |access-date=2024-06-19 |website=www.assam.org}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal |last=Valluri |first=Sai Harshini |date=2024-03-06 |title=Indian Women v. Indian Armed Forces: AFSPA Tipping the Scales of Justice |url=https://voelkerrechtsblog.org/indian-women-v-indian-armed-forces/ |journal=Völkerrechtsblog |language=en |doi=10.17176/20240306-220132-0}}</ref> Despite the victim's family filing a complaint,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Indian Army Officer, Wife Arrested For Allegedly Abusing Domestic Help From Assam |url=https://guwahatiplus.com/assam/indian-army-officer-wife-arrested-for-allegedly-abusing-domestic-help-from-assam |access-date=2024-06-19 |website=guwahatiplus.com |language=en}}</ref> no action was taken against the accused, raising concerns about impunity and lack of accountability.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Assam records highest cases of sexual violence by armed forces in 20 years: NGO |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/assam-records-highest-cases-of-sexual-violence-by-armed-forces-in-20-years-ngo/story-1xgc3y8MIIgHDh7SDIwhiN.html}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-09-27 |title=‘Burns, cuts, broken teeth’: Army Major, wife arrested in Assam for ‘inhuman torture’ of minor domestic help |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/army-major-wife-arrest-assam-torture-of-minor-domestic-help-8958990/ |access-date=2024-06-19 |website=The Indian Express |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=2015-04-12 |title=Protests in Guwahati against Army after ‘rape’ of minor |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/protests-in-guwahati-against-army-after-rape-of-minor/article7096056.ece |access-date=2024-06-19 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}</ref>
-=== Lack of Accountability ===
-One of the major issues in addressing human rights violations in Assam has been the lack of accountability and the failure to bring perpetrators to justice. <ref>{{Cite news |last1=Davila |first1=Vianna |last2=Churchill |first2=Lexi |last3=Larson |first3=Ren |date=2022-08-09 |title=Twice accused of sexual assault, he was let go by Army commanders. He attacked again. |url=https://www.texastribune.org/2022/08/09/army-military-sexual-assault-pretrial-confinement/ |access-date=2024-06-19 |work=The Texas Tribune |language=en}}</ref>Cases of extrajudicial killings, rape, and other forms of violence often go unpunished, leading to a sense of impunity among security forces and other perpetrators.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Desk |first=Sentinel Digital |date=2023-09-26 |title=Assam: Army Officer and Wife Arrested for Alleged Torture of Minor in Haflong |url=https://www.sentinelassam.com/north-east-india-news/assam-news/assam-army-officer-and-wife-arrested-for-alleged-torture-of-minor-in-haflong-668501 |access-date=2024-06-19 |website=Sentinel Assam |language=en}}</ref>
-== Birth of ULFA ==
-The United Liberation Front of Assam (ULFA) was formed on April 7, 1979, <ref>{{Cite web |title=7 7 The Indian State and ULFA: Winning a Battle and Losing the War?1 |url=https://academic.oup.com/book/5580/chapter/148552771}}</ref>with the aim of establishing an independent sovereign Assam through armed struggle. <ref>{{Cite web |title=The Contours of Assam Insurgency |url=https://ciaotest.cc.columbia.edu/olj/sa/sa_mar01kod01.html |access-date=2024-06-19 |website=ciaotest.cc.columbia.edu}}</ref>The group emerged in response to the socio-political and economic grievances of the Assamese people, particularly regarding illegal immigration from Bangladesh, perceived as a threat to the Assamese identity and culture.<ref>{{Cite web |title=United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) - Terrorist Group of Assam |url=https://www.satp.org/satporgtp/countries/india/states/assam/terrorist_outfits/ulfa.htm#:~:text=United%20Liberation%20Front%20of%20Asom%20(ULFA)%20was%20formed%20on%20April,sovereign%20socialist%20Assam%22%20through%20an |access-date=2024-06-19 |website=www.satp.org}}</ref>
-=== Background ===
-ULFA was founded by six Assamese youths, including Paresh Baruah, who became its military chief. <ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-12-29 |title=A rebel group in the Indian state of Assam signs a peace accord with the government |url=https://apnews.com/article/india-ulfa-rebels-assam-peace-accord-94dbded44cd992f08adf4f437f7c13f3 |access-date=2024-06-19 |website=AP News |language=en}}</ref>The group gained traction by tapping into the growing resentment against the perceived neglect and exploitation of Assam by the Indian government. <ref>{{Cite web |date=2024-01-29 |title=Decode Politics: As ULFA formally disbands, tracing its nearly half-century journey, with some miles to go |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/political-pulse/decode-politics-ulfa-disbands-tracing-nearly-half-century-journey-9132261/ |access-date=2024-06-19 |website=The Indian Express |language=en}}</ref>The Assam Accord of 1985, which sought to address these grievances, failed to satisfy ULFA's demand for independence, leading to further escalation of the conflict.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Karmakar |first=Sumir |title=Ulfa-I still a challenge in Assam's long quest for 'complete peace' |url=https://www.deccanherald.com/india/assam/ulfa-i-still-a-challenge-in-assams-long-quest-for-complete-peace-2816142 |access-date=2024-06-19 |website=Deccan Herald |language=en}}</ref>
-=== Armed Struggle ===
-ULFA began its armed struggle against the Indian state, targeting security forces, government officials, and infrastructure. The group employed guerrilla tactics and bombings to further its cause, leading to a cycle of violence and counter-violence in Assam.
-=== Impact ===
-The emergence of ULFA had a profound impact on Assam's socio-political landscape. <ref>{{Cite journal |last=Gohain |first=Hiren |date=2007 |title=Chronicles of Violence and Terror: Rise of United Liberation Front of Asom |url=https://www.jstor.org/stable/4419382 |journal=Economic and Political Weekly |volume=42 |issue=12 |pages=1012–1018 |issn=0012-9976}}</ref>The group's activities disrupted normal life in the state, leading to economic losses and a sense of insecurity among the populace. <ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-12-29 |title=Historic Peace Deal With ULFA: Another Feather in Modi’s Cap |url=https://www.news18.com/opinion/opinion-historic-peace-deal-with-ulfa-another-feather-in-modis-cap-8722071.html |access-date=2024-06-19 |website=News18 |language=en}}</ref>The Indian government's response, including the imposition of AFSPA, further exacerbated tensions and human rights abuses in the region.<ref>{{Cite web |title=‘Won’t call them militants’: Sarma distributes financial aid to former ULFA cadres |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/wont-call-them-militants-sarma-distributes-financial-aid-to-former-ulfa-cadres-101709463956571.html}}</ref>
-=== International Connections ===
-ULFA sought support from various quarters, including countries like China, which were sympathetic to its cause. <ref>{{Cite web |last=StoriesAsia |title=Why Has China Given Shelter to a Rebel Leader From India’s Northeast? |url=https://thediplomat.com/2020/02/why-has-china-given-shelter-to-a-rebel-leader-from-indias-northeast/ |access-date=2024-06-19 |website=thediplomat.com |language=en-US}}</ref>The group also forged links with other separatist movements in the region, aiming to garner support for its struggle for independence. <ref>{{Cite web |title=Kachin-Myanmar Conflict: Implications for India |url=https://www.vifindia.org/article/2011/february/17/Kachin-Myanmar-Conflict-Implications-for-India |access-date=2024-06-19 |website=www.vifindia.org |language=en}}</ref>ULFA is also quite close with [[Kachin Independence Army]] of Myanmar,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Indian Militant Trained by Myanmar Rebels Gives Up the Struggle in Border Region |url=https://www.irrawaddy.com/opinion/guest-column/indian-militant-trained-myanmar-rebels-gives-struggle-border-region.html}}</ref> maintaining close tie in the Federal Wesean Alliance.<ref>{{Cite web |title=India’s Kachin connection in Myanmar |url=https://www.orfonline.org/expert-speak/indias-kachin-connection-in-myanmar |access-date=2024-06-19 |website=orfonline.org |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Beyond India's borders |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india/beyond-india-s-borders/story-WGNl1VDYxWPwEMosNAbM5H.html}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Kalita |first=Jayanta |date=2021-03-16 |title=Kachin Independence Army That Once Trained Indian Militants Ambushes Military Bases In Myanmar |url=https://www.eurasiantimes.com/myanmar-rebel-group-kachin-independence-army/ |access-date=2024-06-19 |website=Latest Asian, Middle-East, EurAsian, Indian News |language=en-US}}</ref>
-== Present Day ==
-The demand for Swadhin Axom remains a significant issue in Assam's political discourse. <ref>{{Cite web |title=Why women have cracked feet - Shivangi Kaushik {{!}} Otherwise Magazine |url=https://www.otherwisemag.com/crackedfeet |access-date=2024-06-19 |website=Otherwise |language=en}}</ref>While some advocate for greater autonomy within the Indian federal structure, others continue to push for complete independence<ref>{{Cite web |title=Protest against Citizenship Bill -- a whiff of 1979 Assam movement |url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/news-ians/protest-against-citizenship-bill-a-whiff-of-1979-assam-movement-119020801277_1.html}}</ref>. The region's complex demographic dynamics, marked by ethnic diversity and historical grievances, contribute to the nuanced nature of the debate surrounding Swadhin Axom.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Sedition cases against Assam litterateur, RTI activist, scribe Hiren Gohain {{!}} The Shillong Times |url=https://theshillongtimes.com/2019/01/11/sedition-cases-against-assam-litterateur-rti-activist-scribe-hiren-gohain/ |access-date=2024-06-19 |website=theshillongtimes.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Why Assam Is up in Arms Against Controversial New Indian Citizenship Law |url=https://thediplomat.com/2024/03/why-assam-is-up-in-arms-against-controversial-new-indian-citizenship-law/ |access-date=2024-06-19 |website=thediplomat.com |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=2018-08-02 |title=From Assam Accord to NRC discord: A timeline |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/et-explains/from-assam-accord-to-nrc-discord-a-timeline/articleshow/65237816.cms?from=mdr |access-date=2024-06-19 |work=The Economic Times |issn=0013-0389}}</ref>
-However, in recent years, there have been discussions about the formation of a federal Wesean state that would encompass Swadhin Axom as one of its constituent regions.<ref>{{Cite web |title=united national liberation front of wesea: Latest News & Videos, Photos about united national liberation front of wesea {{!}} The Economic Times - Page 1 |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/topic/united-national-liberation-front-of-wesea |access-date=2024-06-19 |website=The Economic Times |language=en}}</ref> This proposal envisions a political entity that would bring together various ethnic groups in the region, including the Assamese, in a federal arrangement that respects their distinct identities and aspirations.<ref>{{Cite web |title=terrorist-group-incident-text-india-insurgencynortheast-united-liberation-front-of-asom-independent-ulfa-i_Aug-2013 |url=https://www.satp.org/terrorist-incident-text/india-insurgencynortheast/united-liberation-front-of-asom-independent-ulfa-i_Aug-2013 |access-date=2024-06-19 |website=www.satp.org}}</ref>
-== References ==
-{{reflist}}
-[[Category:Proposed countries]]
-[[Category:Assam]]
-[[Category:Assamese people]]
-[[Category:National liberation movements]]