NCJ Number
140887
Journal
Studies in Conflict and Terrorism Volume: 15 Issue: 4 Dated: (October- December 1992) Pages: 251-266
Date Published
1992
Length
16 pages
Annotation
This article traces the origin, nature, and content of the violence in Assam, India and the current negotiations for a permanent solution to the turmoil.
Abstract
Located in India's northeast, Assam is geographically isolated from the rest of India and has experienced extensive immigration throughout the 20th Century. The native population has been outnumbered by Bengali-speaking immigrant Hindus and Muslims, reducing the Assamese to a minority status in their home State. Thousands of Assamese have died in ethnic, religious, and linguistic strife. The conflict and the failure of the State and central governments to formulate a viable solution have given rise to an upheaval in the form of militant activities, largely headed by the United Liberation Front of Assam (ULFA). Two military operations have been conducted in the last 18 months to rout the separatist Maoist militants. In December 1991, ULFA declared a unilateral indefinite cease-fire. Negotiations for a permanent solution are now taking place. Table and notes (Author abstract modified)