David Halloran Lumsdaine (ed.)
- Published in print:
- 2009
- Published Online:
- May 2009
- ISBN:
- 9780195308242
- eISBN:
- 9780199867301
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195308242.001.0001
- Subject:
- Religion, Religion and Society
This book, along with three other volumes, seeks to answer the question: What happens when a revivalist religion based on scriptural orthodoxy participates in the volatile politics of the Third ...
More
This book, along with three other volumes, seeks to answer the question: What happens when a revivalist religion based on scriptural orthodoxy participates in the volatile politics of the Third World? Is the result a democratic politics of the ballot box, or is it more like an authoritarian politics of command from on high? Does the evangelical faith of the Bible hinder or promote a politics of the ballot box? At a time when the global-political impact of another revivalist and scriptural religion—Islam—fuels vexed debate among analysts the world over, these volumes offer an unusual comparative perspective on a critical issue: The often combustible interaction of resurgent religion and the developing world's unstable politics. Three of the volumes focus on particular regions (Africa, Latin America, and Asia). The fourth will address the broader question of evangelical Christianity and democracy in the global setting. This book considers the case of Asia. The introduction offers a historical overview of evangelicalism in the region, provides a theoretical framework for understanding evangelical impact on the global south, and summarizes the findings presented in the remainder of the book. Six individual case studies follow, focusing respectively on the situation in China, Western India, Northeast India, Indonesia, South Korea, and the Philippines. The contributors, mainly younger scholars based in Asia, bring first hand-knowledge to their chapters and employ both field and archival research to develop their data and analyses.Less
This book, along with three other volumes, seeks to answer the question: What happens when a revivalist religion based on scriptural orthodoxy participates in the volatile politics of the Third World? Is the result a democratic politics of the ballot box, or is it more like an authoritarian politics of command from on high? Does the evangelical faith of the Bible hinder or promote a politics of the ballot box? At a time when the global-political impact of another revivalist and scriptural religion—Islam—fuels vexed debate among analysts the world over, these volumes offer an unusual comparative perspective on a critical issue: The often combustible interaction of resurgent religion and the developing world's unstable politics. Three of the volumes focus on particular regions (Africa, Latin America, and Asia). The fourth will address the broader question of evangelical Christianity and democracy in the global setting. This book considers the case of Asia. The introduction offers a historical overview of evangelicalism in the region, provides a theoretical framework for understanding evangelical impact on the global south, and summarizes the findings presented in the remainder of the book. Six individual case studies follow, focusing respectively on the situation in China, Western India, Northeast India, Indonesia, South Korea, and the Philippines. The contributors, mainly younger scholars based in Asia, bring first hand-knowledge to their chapters and employ both field and archival research to develop their data and analyses.
Sanjib Baruah
- Published in print:
- 2007
- Published Online:
- October 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780195690828
- eISBN:
- 9780199081769
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195690828.003.0010
- Subject:
- Political Science, Indian Politics
Northeast India’s political troubles can be traced to its economic underdevelopment. There is no guarantee that the Northeast’s present predicament can be solved by a successful counter-insurgency ...
More
Northeast India’s political troubles can be traced to its economic underdevelopment. There is no guarantee that the Northeast’s present predicament can be solved by a successful counter-insurgency and a lot of money. This chapter argues that globalization presents opportunities for Northeast India to get out of the ‘territorial trap’ and relate to its transnational neighbours on the east, both economically and culturally. It discusses transnationalism and how transnational region building can bring important dividends to Northeast India in terms of economics and politics. It also describes the politics of recognition as a recurrent theme in the politics of ethnic militancy in the region, how China and security anxieties are holding back the region’s pursuit of a Look East policy, and the future direction of this policy.Less
Northeast India’s political troubles can be traced to its economic underdevelopment. There is no guarantee that the Northeast’s present predicament can be solved by a successful counter-insurgency and a lot of money. This chapter argues that globalization presents opportunities for Northeast India to get out of the ‘territorial trap’ and relate to its transnational neighbours on the east, both economically and culturally. It discusses transnationalism and how transnational region building can bring important dividends to Northeast India in terms of economics and politics. It also describes the politics of recognition as a recurrent theme in the politics of ethnic militancy in the region, how China and security anxieties are holding back the region’s pursuit of a Look East policy, and the future direction of this policy.
Loriliai Biernacki
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- September 2007
- ISBN:
- 9780195327823
- eISBN:
- 9780199785520
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195327823.001.0001
- Subject:
- Religion, Hinduism
The role of women and ideas of gender are fundamental components of all religious traditions. Tantric traditions in particular offer a unique perspective on women's participation in religious ...
More
The role of women and ideas of gender are fundamental components of all religious traditions. Tantric traditions in particular offer a unique perspective on women's participation in religious traditions since they frequently incorporate worship of Goddesses, along with ordinary women as participants in religious rites. This book examines the representations of women within Tantra using a case study of a selection of Hindu Tantric texts from the fifteenth through eighteenth centuries in Northeast India. Arguing for a nuanced perspective of women in Tantra, this book presents evidence for women's enhanced status in some traditions of Tantra, with women in the roles of guru and initiate. This book also addresses images of women within the Tantric rite of sexual union, arguing for multiple versions and motivations for this notorious practice. Especially this book addresses issues of discourse and speech, women's speech and speech about women, suggesting the imbrication of women's bodies within ideas of women's speech. This book examines a number of Tantric texts that have so far not been translated into Western languages. One appendix delineates the historical context for fifteenth through eighteenth century in the Northeast region of India and also surveys images of women found across a wide range of Tantric texts. The second appendix gives a chapter by chapter synopsis of the primary text used for this study, the Bṭhannīla Tantra, “The Great Blue Tantra,” a long and so far untranslated Tantric text.Less
The role of women and ideas of gender are fundamental components of all religious traditions. Tantric traditions in particular offer a unique perspective on women's participation in religious traditions since they frequently incorporate worship of Goddesses, along with ordinary women as participants in religious rites. This book examines the representations of women within Tantra using a case study of a selection of Hindu Tantric texts from the fifteenth through eighteenth centuries in Northeast India. Arguing for a nuanced perspective of women in Tantra, this book presents evidence for women's enhanced status in some traditions of Tantra, with women in the roles of guru and initiate. This book also addresses images of women within the Tantric rite of sexual union, arguing for multiple versions and motivations for this notorious practice. Especially this book addresses issues of discourse and speech, women's speech and speech about women, suggesting the imbrication of women's bodies within ideas of women's speech. This book examines a number of Tantric texts that have so far not been translated into Western languages. One appendix delineates the historical context for fifteenth through eighteenth century in the Northeast region of India and also surveys images of women found across a wide range of Tantric texts. The second appendix gives a chapter by chapter synopsis of the primary text used for this study, the Bṭhannīla Tantra, “The Great Blue Tantra,” a long and so far untranslated Tantric text.
Sanjib Baruah
- Published in print:
- 2007
- Published Online:
- October 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780195690828
- eISBN:
- 9780199081769
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195690828.003.0001
- Subject:
- Political Science, Indian Politics
This book explores the causes as well as the meaning and significance of political violence in Northeast India, focusing on the formal and informal structures of governance and the democracy deficit ...
More
This book explores the causes as well as the meaning and significance of political violence in Northeast India, focusing on the formal and informal structures of governance and the democracy deficit in the region. It looks at the life and times of the United Liberation Front of Assam(ULFA), the conflict between the Indian government and the Nagas, as well as the cultural politics that animate the militias of the region, and their relationship to their constituencies and to ‘mainstream’ social and political forces. In addressing the politics of militancy in Northeast India, the book focuses on areas both inside and outside the borders of what is called Assam today. Instead of reinforcing a false separation between ‘insurgency’ and the ‘mainstream’ of social and political life, the book argues that ethnic militias, counter-insurgency operations, state-backed militias, developmentalist practices, and the deformed institutions of democratic governance constitute a coherent whole, known as durable disorder.Less
This book explores the causes as well as the meaning and significance of political violence in Northeast India, focusing on the formal and informal structures of governance and the democracy deficit in the region. It looks at the life and times of the United Liberation Front of Assam(ULFA), the conflict between the Indian government and the Nagas, as well as the cultural politics that animate the militias of the region, and their relationship to their constituencies and to ‘mainstream’ social and political forces. In addressing the politics of militancy in Northeast India, the book focuses on areas both inside and outside the borders of what is called Assam today. Instead of reinforcing a false separation between ‘insurgency’ and the ‘mainstream’ of social and political life, the book argues that ethnic militias, counter-insurgency operations, state-backed militias, developmentalist practices, and the deformed institutions of democratic governance constitute a coherent whole, known as durable disorder.
Sanjib Baruah
- Published in print:
- 2007
- Published Online:
- October 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780195690828
- eISBN:
- 9780199081769
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195690828.003.0002
- Subject:
- Political Science, Indian Politics
Arunachal Pradesh, part of the eastern Himalayas, boasts pristine forests and intact mega-biodiversity. With a fragile mountain ecosystem, the state is an ideal candidate for sustainable development. ...
More
Arunachal Pradesh, part of the eastern Himalayas, boasts pristine forests and intact mega-biodiversity. With a fragile mountain ecosystem, the state is an ideal candidate for sustainable development. This chapter examines how the discourse of development has emerged in Arunachal, and argues that the goal of nationalizing a frontier space has been the major thrust of Indian policy vis-à-vis Northeast India in general and Arunachal in particular. It explores the way in which this national security driven process, following the 1962 border war between India and China, has resulted in the creation of a special regional dispensation of small and financially dependent states that, in a formal sense, are autonomous in terms of India’s federal polity. However, in terms of power vis-à-vis the central government, this form of federalism is little more than cosmetic. The chapter contends that, in the attempt to nationalize this space, the logic of developmentalism is no doubt embedded in state institutions but at significant social, environmental, and political costs.Less
Arunachal Pradesh, part of the eastern Himalayas, boasts pristine forests and intact mega-biodiversity. With a fragile mountain ecosystem, the state is an ideal candidate for sustainable development. This chapter examines how the discourse of development has emerged in Arunachal, and argues that the goal of nationalizing a frontier space has been the major thrust of Indian policy vis-à-vis Northeast India in general and Arunachal in particular. It explores the way in which this national security driven process, following the 1962 border war between India and China, has resulted in the creation of a special regional dispensation of small and financially dependent states that, in a formal sense, are autonomous in terms of India’s federal polity. However, in terms of power vis-à-vis the central government, this form of federalism is little more than cosmetic. The chapter contends that, in the attempt to nationalize this space, the logic of developmentalism is no doubt embedded in state institutions but at significant social, environmental, and political costs.
M. Sajjad Hassan
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- October 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780195692976
- eISBN:
- 9780199081547
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195692976.003.0001
- Subject:
- Political Science, Indian Politics
This chapter first defines the problem with the existing research on the region, which treats the Northeast region as a single unit. It then summarizes the history of conflicts in the region and in ...
More
This chapter first defines the problem with the existing research on the region, which treats the Northeast region as a single unit. It then summarizes the history of conflicts in the region and in the two states—Manipur and Mizoram. It covers the specific literature on conflicts in Northeast India and the adequacy of existing arguments for understanding specific questions. It also reviews the literature on state building and collapse and examines some recent approaches to studying issues of state capability that provide promising ways to engage with the research problem. The chapter argues that the breakdown in Manipur is as much about the mobilization against the agencies of the state as it is about intercommunity conflicts. Social control in Manipur stands fragmented and state actors have failed to become the dominant force in society.Less
This chapter first defines the problem with the existing research on the region, which treats the Northeast region as a single unit. It then summarizes the history of conflicts in the region and in the two states—Manipur and Mizoram. It covers the specific literature on conflicts in Northeast India and the adequacy of existing arguments for understanding specific questions. It also reviews the literature on state building and collapse and examines some recent approaches to studying issues of state capability that provide promising ways to engage with the research problem. The chapter argues that the breakdown in Manipur is as much about the mobilization against the agencies of the state as it is about intercommunity conflicts. Social control in Manipur stands fragmented and state actors have failed to become the dominant force in society.
Laldinkima Sailo
- Published in print:
- 2016
- Published Online:
- April 2016
- ISBN:
- 9780199463800
- eISBN:
- 9780199086535
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199463800.003.0004
- Subject:
- Political Science, Indian Politics
The development of connectivity infrastructure between India and ASEAN through Northeast India has been presented as a way forward for Northeast India to address its current state of ...
More
The development of connectivity infrastructure between India and ASEAN through Northeast India has been presented as a way forward for Northeast India to address its current state of underdevelopment. New Delhi increasingly presents the development of the region as integral to its efforts towards greater integration with its eastern neighbours under the aegis of its Look East Policy. Some of the internal and external strategic compulsions that prevented the region from being opened up[ continue to persist. There are greater development challenges within the region if it were to benefit from opening up and integration with Southeast Asia. Further, if the region is to meaningfully become part of a new economic dynamism, there is a need to reconsider the current limited context within which New Delhi seeks to open it out. This requires addressing difficult issues with neighbors with whom India has not always had cordial relations.Less
The development of connectivity infrastructure between India and ASEAN through Northeast India has been presented as a way forward for Northeast India to address its current state of underdevelopment. New Delhi increasingly presents the development of the region as integral to its efforts towards greater integration with its eastern neighbours under the aegis of its Look East Policy. Some of the internal and external strategic compulsions that prevented the region from being opened up[ continue to persist. There are greater development challenges within the region if it were to benefit from opening up and integration with Southeast Asia. Further, if the region is to meaningfully become part of a new economic dynamism, there is a need to reconsider the current limited context within which New Delhi seeks to open it out. This requires addressing difficult issues with neighbors with whom India has not always had cordial relations.
Sanjib Baruah
- Published in print:
- 2007
- Published Online:
- October 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780195690828
- eISBN:
- 9780199081769
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195690828.003.0003
- Subject:
- Political Science, Indian Politics
When India became independent from British rule in 1947, it faced a major constitutional problem with respect to Manipur and other indirectly ruled ‘native states’. Indeed, the decision of the ...
More
When India became independent from British rule in 1947, it faced a major constitutional problem with respect to Manipur and other indirectly ruled ‘native states’. Indeed, the decision of the Kashmiri Maharaja to accede to India was responsible for the eruption of the Kashmir conflict between India and Pakistan. Manipur’s merger with India is considered illegal and unconstitutional by a number of militias today. Like other states in the Indian Union, Manipur has an elected chief minister and an elected state legislature. However, it also has a de facto parallel structure of governance directly controlled from Delhi that manages counter-insurgency operations. Aside from Manipur, four other states of Northeast India today have militias of varying levels of activity and intensity. In an attempt to control this reality, the central government has been appointing retired generals as governors to monitor the dilution of civil political authority in the Northeast.Less
When India became independent from British rule in 1947, it faced a major constitutional problem with respect to Manipur and other indirectly ruled ‘native states’. Indeed, the decision of the Kashmiri Maharaja to accede to India was responsible for the eruption of the Kashmir conflict between India and Pakistan. Manipur’s merger with India is considered illegal and unconstitutional by a number of militias today. Like other states in the Indian Union, Manipur has an elected chief minister and an elected state legislature. However, it also has a de facto parallel structure of governance directly controlled from Delhi that manages counter-insurgency operations. Aside from Manipur, four other states of Northeast India today have militias of varying levels of activity and intensity. In an attempt to control this reality, the central government has been appointing retired generals as governors to monitor the dilution of civil political authority in the Northeast.
Sanjib Baruah
- Published in print:
- 2007
- Published Online:
- October 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780195690828
- eISBN:
- 9780199081769
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195690828.003.0009
- Subject:
- Political Science, Indian Politics
In Meghalaya as well as in the states of Mizoram, Nagaland, and Arunachal Pradesh, non-tribals are considered denizens. This protective discrimination regime dates back to colonial times when policy ...
More
In Meghalaya as well as in the states of Mizoram, Nagaland, and Arunachal Pradesh, non-tribals are considered denizens. This protective discrimination regime dates back to colonial times when policy instruments were used to protect vulnerable aboriginal peoples living in isolated enclaves. In recent years, Northeast India has witnessed internal displacements caused by violent ethno-national conflicts. This chapter describes an unfolding crisis of citizenship resulting from the tension between the politics of ethnic homelands and the logic of the political economy of Northeast India. It examines the historical conditions and institutional context in which some of the typical ethno-political conflicts of the region take place, and why these conflicts have triggered episodes of ethnic violence and internal displacement. The author concludes by discussing how erstwhile ethnic subjects can become full fledged citizens, and how the descendents of immigrants should not have to remain as perpetual ‘outsiders’ in Assam. Dual citizenship could be one answer.Less
In Meghalaya as well as in the states of Mizoram, Nagaland, and Arunachal Pradesh, non-tribals are considered denizens. This protective discrimination regime dates back to colonial times when policy instruments were used to protect vulnerable aboriginal peoples living in isolated enclaves. In recent years, Northeast India has witnessed internal displacements caused by violent ethno-national conflicts. This chapter describes an unfolding crisis of citizenship resulting from the tension between the politics of ethnic homelands and the logic of the political economy of Northeast India. It examines the historical conditions and institutional context in which some of the typical ethno-political conflicts of the region take place, and why these conflicts have triggered episodes of ethnic violence and internal displacement. The author concludes by discussing how erstwhile ethnic subjects can become full fledged citizens, and how the descendents of immigrants should not have to remain as perpetual ‘outsiders’ in Assam. Dual citizenship could be one answer.
Binoda Kumar Mishra
- Published in print:
- 2016
- Published Online:
- April 2016
- ISBN:
- 9780199463800
- eISBN:
- 9780199086535
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199463800.003.0009
- Subject:
- Political Science, Indian Politics
It is argued that India’s approach to its Northeast.and towards the BCIM-EC initiative is not practically grounded. The failure of Look East Policy in bringing development to the Northeast amply ...
More
It is argued that India’s approach to its Northeast.and towards the BCIM-EC initiative is not practically grounded. The failure of Look East Policy in bringing development to the Northeast amply proves that Northeast is yet to be provided with a viable and economically complementary partner to interact with. In any logical analysis, China is only such suitable economic partner for Northeast India. An attempt is made to look at the India’s economic fears in opening out Northeast to the Chinese and specific concerns of India regarding engaging China, Myanmar and Bangladesh are also discussed. They are not necessarily economic. Considering the Sino-Indian strategic juxtaposition, India’s real and perceived apprehensions, and the prospects of BCIM-EC for the Northeast, an argument is made for graduated engagement. It makes a case for sector specific opening of India’s Northeast to Chinese investment.Less
It is argued that India’s approach to its Northeast.and towards the BCIM-EC initiative is not practically grounded. The failure of Look East Policy in bringing development to the Northeast amply proves that Northeast is yet to be provided with a viable and economically complementary partner to interact with. In any logical analysis, China is only such suitable economic partner for Northeast India. An attempt is made to look at the India’s economic fears in opening out Northeast to the Chinese and specific concerns of India regarding engaging China, Myanmar and Bangladesh are also discussed. They are not necessarily economic. Considering the Sino-Indian strategic juxtaposition, India’s real and perceived apprehensions, and the prospects of BCIM-EC for the Northeast, an argument is made for graduated engagement. It makes a case for sector specific opening of India’s Northeast to Chinese investment.
Joy L. K. Pachuau
- Published in print:
- 2014
- Published Online:
- November 2014
- ISBN:
- 9780199451159
- eISBN:
- 9780199084586
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199451159.001.0001
- Subject:
- History, Indian History
The book is an attempt at understanding the complex issues of identity formation in the relatively unexplored region of Northeast India. The work adopts the methodology of historical anthropology to ...
More
The book is an attempt at understanding the complex issues of identity formation in the relatively unexplored region of Northeast India. The work adopts the methodology of historical anthropology to make sense of a particular ethnic group, namely the Mizo, one of the many such groups in the region. While taking into consideration presentist self-perceptions of who the Mizos are, the study engages with their history as well as social practice to show the contours of identity-shaping and identity-making. Following from identity studies elsewhere, the author engages with the ideas of ‘difference’ and how it plays an important role in the creation of identity. She examines mainland India’s views about the Northeast and argues that the notion of ‘difference’ is deeply embedded in the politics of domination and hegemonization. Another thrust in the book is to look for patterns in social organization that impinge on identity-making that are not far removed from self-ascribed notions about the ‘ethnic self’. Such self-ascribed notions are seen as instruments of agency that defy the views of the ‘other’, while also organizing the ‘ethnic self’. In this, the community’s engagements with Christianity, which is ‘localized’, and its practices surrounding death are seen as prime organizers. ‘Praxis’, especially in the context of Christianity and death, are thus seen not only as chief organizers of Mizo identity, but also as the boundary markers around which notions of belonging and exclusion are invoked.Less
The book is an attempt at understanding the complex issues of identity formation in the relatively unexplored region of Northeast India. The work adopts the methodology of historical anthropology to make sense of a particular ethnic group, namely the Mizo, one of the many such groups in the region. While taking into consideration presentist self-perceptions of who the Mizos are, the study engages with their history as well as social practice to show the contours of identity-shaping and identity-making. Following from identity studies elsewhere, the author engages with the ideas of ‘difference’ and how it plays an important role in the creation of identity. She examines mainland India’s views about the Northeast and argues that the notion of ‘difference’ is deeply embedded in the politics of domination and hegemonization. Another thrust in the book is to look for patterns in social organization that impinge on identity-making that are not far removed from self-ascribed notions about the ‘ethnic self’. Such self-ascribed notions are seen as instruments of agency that defy the views of the ‘other’, while also organizing the ‘ethnic self’. In this, the community’s engagements with Christianity, which is ‘localized’, and its practices surrounding death are seen as prime organizers. ‘Praxis’, especially in the context of Christianity and death, are thus seen not only as chief organizers of Mizo identity, but also as the boundary markers around which notions of belonging and exclusion are invoked.
M. Sajjad Hassan
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- October 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780195692976
- eISBN:
- 9780199081547
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195692976.001.0001
- Subject:
- Political Science, Indian Politics
This book deals with the instability and violence in Northeast India, and discusses the attempts made by states and societies in the region to respond to them. It also investigates why attaining ...
More
This book deals with the instability and violence in Northeast India, and discusses the attempts made by states and societies in the region to respond to them. It also investigates why attaining political order and peace in Northeast India has been a difficult task. Section I of this book examines the historical process of state-making in Manipur and Mizoram. Section II evaluates mobilization of identity in Manipur, followed by a similar exploration in the case of Mizoram. Section III discusses state capability by systematically comparing how agencies of the state in Manipur and Mizoram perform their basic functions. Lastly, it presents some lessons from the author's research in terms of the overall argument, as well as the manner in which the research findings open out to larger issues around state-making, state capability, and collective identity construction and mobilization, and how they can help to better inform policy responses to the crisis in the Northeast.Less
This book deals with the instability and violence in Northeast India, and discusses the attempts made by states and societies in the region to respond to them. It also investigates why attaining political order and peace in Northeast India has been a difficult task. Section I of this book examines the historical process of state-making in Manipur and Mizoram. Section II evaluates mobilization of identity in Manipur, followed by a similar exploration in the case of Mizoram. Section III discusses state capability by systematically comparing how agencies of the state in Manipur and Mizoram perform their basic functions. Lastly, it presents some lessons from the author's research in terms of the overall argument, as well as the manner in which the research findings open out to larger issues around state-making, state capability, and collective identity construction and mobilization, and how they can help to better inform policy responses to the crisis in the Northeast.
M. Sajjad Hassan
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- October 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780195692976
- eISBN:
- 9780199081547
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195692976.003.0008
- Subject:
- Political Science, Indian Politics
This chapter compares the account of the variance in conflict and political order to that provided in the literature on Northeast India and specifically in the conflict literature. The author ...
More
This chapter compares the account of the variance in conflict and political order to that provided in the literature on Northeast India and specifically in the conflict literature. The author describes the theoretical and policy implications of his research. It discusses that state agencies face challenges from rival forces across the range of their functions and that the ruling coalition in Mizoram has been able to mitigate inter-group contestations and prevent conflicts from breaking out uncontainably. It notes that grievance is an important ingredient for conflicts and violence. A comparison between the political economy of Manipur and Mizoram shows that both institutional arrangements and capabilities of the state in Manipur are poor, and hence, prone to internal and external shocks. It concludes by suggesting that actions around local issues, particularly those that are about inclusionary participation mechanisms, such as through public action for provision of public services will need to be pursued.Less
This chapter compares the account of the variance in conflict and political order to that provided in the literature on Northeast India and specifically in the conflict literature. The author describes the theoretical and policy implications of his research. It discusses that state agencies face challenges from rival forces across the range of their functions and that the ruling coalition in Mizoram has been able to mitigate inter-group contestations and prevent conflicts from breaking out uncontainably. It notes that grievance is an important ingredient for conflicts and violence. A comparison between the political economy of Manipur and Mizoram shows that both institutional arrangements and capabilities of the state in Manipur are poor, and hence, prone to internal and external shocks. It concludes by suggesting that actions around local issues, particularly those that are about inclusionary participation mechanisms, such as through public action for provision of public services will need to be pursued.
Manjil Hazarika
- Published in print:
- 2017
- Published Online:
- May 2017
- ISBN:
- 9780199474660
- eISBN:
- 9780199089093
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/oso/9780199474660.003.0001
- Subject:
- History, Ancient History / Archaeology, Social History
Most of the research on the prehistoric archaeology of the Northeast shows that many such research attempts are confined mainly to surface sites, and that excavated sites from the Neolithic and even ...
More
Most of the research on the prehistoric archaeology of the Northeast shows that many such research attempts are confined mainly to surface sites, and that excavated sites from the Neolithic and even the historical period are comparatively rare. It is now time to scrutinize the nature of the studies done so far on Northeast Indian archaeology and assess the historiography, together with the recent theoretical developments in the discipline. The area is a contact zone between the East and the West and will only be fully known when a complete picture emerges of its prehistoric cultural growth through sustained archaeological and interdisciplinary palaeoecological research. This chapter spells out the rationale behind the research, the problem, the working hypotheses, aim, objectives, and methodologies followed in the book.Less
Most of the research on the prehistoric archaeology of the Northeast shows that many such research attempts are confined mainly to surface sites, and that excavated sites from the Neolithic and even the historical period are comparatively rare. It is now time to scrutinize the nature of the studies done so far on Northeast Indian archaeology and assess the historiography, together with the recent theoretical developments in the discipline. The area is a contact zone between the East and the West and will only be fully known when a complete picture emerges of its prehistoric cultural growth through sustained archaeological and interdisciplinary palaeoecological research. This chapter spells out the rationale behind the research, the problem, the working hypotheses, aim, objectives, and methodologies followed in the book.
Sanjib Baruah
- Published in print:
- 2007
- Published Online:
- October 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780195690828
- eISBN:
- 9780199081769
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195690828.001.0001
- Subject:
- Political Science, Indian Politics
This book offers fresh insights into ethnic conflict and democracy with reference to Northeast India, where insurgency and counter-insurgency operations have caused human and material losses, eroded ...
More
This book offers fresh insights into ethnic conflict and democracy with reference to Northeast India, where insurgency and counter-insurgency operations have caused human and material losses, eroded the region’s democratic fabric, and institutionalised authoritarianism. The result is a growing dissonance between the concept of ethnic homelands and the political economy that actually exists in the region. The book also traces the origins of the Naga insurgency—Northeast India’s oldest armed conflict—and looks at the United Liberation Front of Assam (ULFA) during different phases of its power and influence. The author argues that if peace and development are to be brought to the region, India’s policy would have to be reoriented and linked to a new foreign policy towards Southeast Asia through the pursuit of a dynamic ‘Look East’ policy. In the Preface, the author discusses the issues of insider/outsider and the politics of location which have been interpreted by reviewers and critics as the main themes of the book.Less
This book offers fresh insights into ethnic conflict and democracy with reference to Northeast India, where insurgency and counter-insurgency operations have caused human and material losses, eroded the region’s democratic fabric, and institutionalised authoritarianism. The result is a growing dissonance between the concept of ethnic homelands and the political economy that actually exists in the region. The book also traces the origins of the Naga insurgency—Northeast India’s oldest armed conflict—and looks at the United Liberation Front of Assam (ULFA) during different phases of its power and influence. The author argues that if peace and development are to be brought to the region, India’s policy would have to be reoriented and linked to a new foreign policy towards Southeast Asia through the pursuit of a dynamic ‘Look East’ policy. In the Preface, the author discusses the issues of insider/outsider and the politics of location which have been interpreted by reviewers and critics as the main themes of the book.
Sanjoy Hazarika
- Published in print:
- 2016
- Published Online:
- September 2016
- ISBN:
- 9780199467242
- eISBN:
- 9780199087143
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199467242.003.0006
- Subject:
- Political Science, International Relations and Politics, Security Studies
For nearly 50 years, India’s northeast region was known for assertions of ethnic independence of numerous communities and the scale of violent anti-India insurgencies. In the past two decades, ...
More
For nearly 50 years, India’s northeast region was known for assertions of ethnic independence of numerous communities and the scale of violent anti-India insurgencies. In the past two decades, however, ceasefires and peace talks have taken hold and replaced armed conflicts for the most part. Yet, social tensions remain high in several parts, with outbursts of sectarian and ethnic violence. As the current government embarks on an ambitious programme of infrastructure development across the region, several political uncertainties have cropped up, which could impact internal stability in the northeast and affect India’s ability to influence its eastern neighbours. The chapter is divided into two broad sections: the first briefly examines the political and economic linkages of the region, including the armed challenges to India. The second addresses contemporary issues of governance, growth, and stability while making a set of specific and overarching recommendations for policy change.Less
For nearly 50 years, India’s northeast region was known for assertions of ethnic independence of numerous communities and the scale of violent anti-India insurgencies. In the past two decades, however, ceasefires and peace talks have taken hold and replaced armed conflicts for the most part. Yet, social tensions remain high in several parts, with outbursts of sectarian and ethnic violence. As the current government embarks on an ambitious programme of infrastructure development across the region, several political uncertainties have cropped up, which could impact internal stability in the northeast and affect India’s ability to influence its eastern neighbours. The chapter is divided into two broad sections: the first briefly examines the political and economic linkages of the region, including the armed challenges to India. The second addresses contemporary issues of governance, growth, and stability while making a set of specific and overarching recommendations for policy change.
Jelle J.P. Wouters
- Published in print:
- 2018
- Published Online:
- July 2019
- ISBN:
- 9780199485703
- eISBN:
- 9780199097760
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/oso/9780199485703.001.0001
- Subject:
- Sociology, Race and Ethnicity, Politics, Social Movements and Social Change
In the Shadows of Naga Insurgency is a fine-grained critique of the Naga struggle for political redemption, the state’s response to it, and the social corollaries and carry-overs of protracted ...
More
In the Shadows of Naga Insurgency is a fine-grained critique of the Naga struggle for political redemption, the state’s response to it, and the social corollaries and carry-overs of protracted political conflict on everyday life. Offering an ethnographic underview, Jelle Wouters illustrates an ‘insurgency complex’ that reveals how embodied experiences of resistance and state aggression, violence and volatility, and struggle and suffering link together to shape social norms, animate local agitations, and complicate interpersonal and intertribal relations in expected and unexpected ways. The book locates the historical experiences and agency of the Naga people and relates these to ordinary villagers’ perceptions, actions, and moral reasoning vis-à-vis both the Naga Movement and the state and its lucrative resources. It thus presses us to rethink our views on tribalism, conflict and ceasefire, development, corruption, and democratic politics.Less
In the Shadows of Naga Insurgency is a fine-grained critique of the Naga struggle for political redemption, the state’s response to it, and the social corollaries and carry-overs of protracted political conflict on everyday life. Offering an ethnographic underview, Jelle Wouters illustrates an ‘insurgency complex’ that reveals how embodied experiences of resistance and state aggression, violence and volatility, and struggle and suffering link together to shape social norms, animate local agitations, and complicate interpersonal and intertribal relations in expected and unexpected ways. The book locates the historical experiences and agency of the Naga people and relates these to ordinary villagers’ perceptions, actions, and moral reasoning vis-à-vis both the Naga Movement and the state and its lucrative resources. It thus presses us to rethink our views on tribalism, conflict and ceasefire, development, corruption, and democratic politics.
Sanjib Baruah
- Published in print:
- 2007
- Published Online:
- October 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780195690828
- eISBN:
- 9780199081769
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195690828.003.0005
- Subject:
- Political Science, Indian Politics
Since 1947 when India gained independence from British rule, the government has been engaged in a bloody armed conflict with the leading political organization fighting for Naga independence. In ...
More
Since 1947 when India gained independence from British rule, the government has been engaged in a bloody armed conflict with the leading political organization fighting for Naga independence. In 1963, the Indian government created the state of Nagaland whose territory coincided with what was then the centrally administered Naga Hills Tuensang Area. Despite efforts to end the conflict, the line between the independentist and the integrationist factions in Naga politics have remained blurred. The author looks at the Naga independentist movement in the context of its opposition to federal constructionism of Naga identity. He also discusses the pamphlet Bedrock of Naga Society (2000) in which the state Congress party takes on the independentist argument that the formation of the Nagaland compromised the sovereignty of the Nagas. The chapter also explores the dynamic between the hill peoples and the lowland states in pre-colonial times and focuses on the relation between the Nagas and the Manipuris which presents the greatest challenge to the peace process today.Less
Since 1947 when India gained independence from British rule, the government has been engaged in a bloody armed conflict with the leading political organization fighting for Naga independence. In 1963, the Indian government created the state of Nagaland whose territory coincided with what was then the centrally administered Naga Hills Tuensang Area. Despite efforts to end the conflict, the line between the independentist and the integrationist factions in Naga politics have remained blurred. The author looks at the Naga independentist movement in the context of its opposition to federal constructionism of Naga identity. He also discusses the pamphlet Bedrock of Naga Society (2000) in which the state Congress party takes on the independentist argument that the formation of the Nagaland compromised the sovereignty of the Nagas. The chapter also explores the dynamic between the hill peoples and the lowland states in pre-colonial times and focuses on the relation between the Nagas and the Manipuris which presents the greatest challenge to the peace process today.
Gorky Chakraborty and Asok Kumar Ray
- Published in print:
- 2017
- Published Online:
- May 2017
- ISBN:
- 9780198792444
- eISBN:
- 9780191834431
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/oso/9780198792444.003.0014
- Subject:
- Economics and Finance, South and East Asia
Chakraborty and Ray discuss the ‘land question’ by critically examining the appropriation of community land and subsequent dispossession of the tribes embedded in the social economy of the hills of ...
More
Chakraborty and Ray discuss the ‘land question’ by critically examining the appropriation of community land and subsequent dispossession of the tribes embedded in the social economy of the hills of Northeast India. They state that the historico-epistemological hiatus between the customary law abiding tribes vis-à-vis the positive law imposing state appears to be fundamental in understanding the difference between the two contrasting interpretations of property rights enacted in the highlands of the region. The trivialization of community land and dispossession of the tribal masses in Manipur, Meghalaya, and Tripura suggests that constitutional protections have fallen short in protecting the community resources of the tribes. The hydropower projects in Arunachal Pradesh and the threats of dispossession of the communities under the hegemony of state-business collusion represent the continuing process of appropriation of the community resources in the hill areas.Less
Chakraborty and Ray discuss the ‘land question’ by critically examining the appropriation of community land and subsequent dispossession of the tribes embedded in the social economy of the hills of Northeast India. They state that the historico-epistemological hiatus between the customary law abiding tribes vis-à-vis the positive law imposing state appears to be fundamental in understanding the difference between the two contrasting interpretations of property rights enacted in the highlands of the region. The trivialization of community land and dispossession of the tribal masses in Manipur, Meghalaya, and Tripura suggests that constitutional protections have fallen short in protecting the community resources of the tribes. The hydropower projects in Arunachal Pradesh and the threats of dispossession of the communities under the hegemony of state-business collusion represent the continuing process of appropriation of the community resources in the hill areas.
Jabin T. Jacob
- Published in print:
- 2016
- Published Online:
- April 2016
- ISBN:
- 9780199463800
- eISBN:
- 9780199086535
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199463800.003.0013
- Subject:
- Political Science, Indian Politics
India and China have more in common in terms of economic development challenges and issues of administration and management than is usually acknowledged. It also needs to be noted that increasingly, ...
More
India and China have more in common in terms of economic development challenges and issues of administration and management than is usually acknowledged. It also needs to be noted that increasingly, it is the Indian states and Chinese provinces that have the responsibility to address these challenges becoming, in the process, extremely dynamic actors in their own right both domestically and externally. This chapter examines the role of Chinese provinces in the country’s growth story and draws out lessons for India and its states and suggests that from a foreign policy perspective, economic exchanges at the sub-national level as well as sub-regional transnational groupings also allow for experimentation in various methods of cooperation between India and China.Less
India and China have more in common in terms of economic development challenges and issues of administration and management than is usually acknowledged. It also needs to be noted that increasingly, it is the Indian states and Chinese provinces that have the responsibility to address these challenges becoming, in the process, extremely dynamic actors in their own right both domestically and externally. This chapter examines the role of Chinese provinces in the country’s growth story and draws out lessons for India and its states and suggests that from a foreign policy perspective, economic exchanges at the sub-national level as well as sub-regional transnational groupings also allow for experimentation in various methods of cooperation between India and China.
