Modi Government’s Hindutva Agenda: Rising Ethnic Tensions in Assam, Nagaland

The Modi-led BJP government’s Hindutva-driven policies have intensified communal and ethnic tensions in India’s northeastern states, particularly Assam and Nagaland. The ongoing anti-Muslim eviction campaign in Assam is now having a direct impact on tribal communities across the state border.

In early July 2025, the BJP government in Assam carried out large-scale demolition drives targeting alleged illegal encroachments. The districts of Dhubri, Goalpara, and Nalbari were particularly affected. As a result, approximately 10,000 Bengali-origin Muslims — many of whom had been settled there for decades — were displaced.

According to The New Indian Express, “Assam’s eviction campaigns have sparked concerns in Nagaland over a possible influx of displaced individuals.” The tribal communities in Nagaland have responded with heightened vigilance.

The Konyak Students’ Union (KSU) in Mon district has taken action by deploying 100 volunteers at key entry points. These volunteers will monitor movement daily in the Tizit and Naginimora areas and are responsible for verifying Inner Line Permits (ILPs) and identification documents of non-local entrants. The KSU has issued strict instructions to turn back anyone lacking valid documentation.

In a statement, the Konyak Students’ Union declared, “We urge a minimum one-month suspension on the issuance of ILPs in Mon district. We expect strict compliance from all units and relevant authorities to ensure the protection of our local rights and security.”

Similarly, the Western Sumi Students’ Union has expressed alarm over the growing presence of illegal immigrants near the Assam–Nagaland border. According to the union, “Illegal immigrants are residing near the Assam-Nagaland border. This situation increases the risks of conflict, displacement, and demographic pressure in our sensitive border areas.”

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma defended the evictions, stating, “The government has reclaimed 1.29 lakh bighas of land from encroachers, and this campaign will continue.”

BJP government policies have fueled inter-state tensions, communal hatred, and ethnic clashes. The crisis in Assam is no longer just a state issue — Modi government policies have ignited communal flames across the entire Northeast region.

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