Indian Army atrocities in Northeast India

The Indian Army has been actively involved in Northeast India—a region comprising Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, and Tripura—primarily to address insurgencies and maintain order.^[1] However, several allegations and documented instances of human rights violations have emerged over the years^[2]

Background

Northeast India has experienced various insurgent movements since India's independence, with groups demanding autonomy or independence based on ethnic and cultural identities.^[3] To counter these movements, the Indian government deployed the army and enacted laws like the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) in 1958, granting special powers to the military in "disturbed areas."^[4] Critics argue that AFSPA has led to human rights abuses due to the immunity it provides to security forces.^[5]

Human rights organizations and local communities have reported instances of extrajudicial killings, torture, sexual violence, and arbitrary detentions by the Indian Army in Northeast India.^[6] The AFSPA has been particularly contentious, with claims that it facilitates impunity for such actions.^[7]

Allegations of violence

Sexual violence in Northeast India has been a significant concern, with numerous allegations against security forces, including the Indian Army.^[8] The enforcement of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) has been criticized for enabling such abuses by providing immunity to military personnel.^[9][10]

Notable cases of sexual violence

Thangjam Manorama Case (2004)

In July 2004, Thangjam Manorama, a 32-year-old woman from Manipur, was arrested by Assam Rifles personnel on suspicion of being associated with insurgent groups.^[11][12] The following day, her body was found bearing signs of torture and sexual assault.^[13][14] This incident led to widespread protests, including a notable demonstration by Manipuri women who protested naked in front of the Assam Rifles headquarters, demanding justice and the repeal of AFSPA.^[15][16] This also led to activism by Irom Sharmila, who started a fast demanding the repeal of AFSPA.^[17]

Rape of Naga Women in Oinam (1987)

In July 1987, following an attack by Naga insurgents on an Assam Rifles post in Oinam, Manipur, a retaliatory operation named "Operation Bluebird" was launched.^[18] During this operation, there were reports of widespread human rights violations, including the rape of Naga women by security forces. Despite documentation by human rights organizations, justice for the victims remains elusive.^[19]

Allegations in Assam and Tripura

Reports from Assam and Tripura have documented instances where women, particularly from tribal communities, have been subjected to sexual violence by security forces during counter-insurgency operations.^[20][21] For example, in Tripura, opposition members alleged in 1989 that there had been numerous cases of rape by security forces in the preceding months. Such incidents have contributed to a pervasive fear among women in these regions.^[22][23]

The rape and murder of Miss Luingamla Muinao occurred on January 24, 1986, in Ngainga village, Ukhrul district, Manipur, India. Captain Mandhir Singh of the 25 Madras Regiment and 2nd Lt Sanjeev Dubey of the Mahar Regiment visited the village for patrolling ahead of Republic Day celebrations.^[24][25] While Luingamla Muinao was alone in her house, the two soldiers entered and attempted to assault her. She resisted and thus was fatally shot by Captain Mandhir Singh.^[26]

The incident led to widespread outrage across Manipur. A large public meeting was held at Ukhrul Tangkhul Long Ground with Luingamla's body, followed by a significant rally in Imphal on March 11, 1986.^[27] The rally was supported by various valley-based organizations, and it was resolved that March 11 would be observed as "Unity Day" to symbolize solidarity between the hill and valley communities of Manipur.^[28]

Luingamla's neighbor, Zamthingla Ruivah, who witnessed the killing, designed a special fanek (traditional wraparound skirt) called "Luingamla Kashan" in her memory.^[29]

Commission Reports and Findings

Justice B.P. Jeevan Reddy Committee (2005)

In 2004, following widespread protests over the alleged rape and murder of Thangjam Manorama by Assam Rifles personnel in Manipur, the Government of India established a committee led by Justice B.P. Jeevan Reddy to review the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA).^[30] The committee's report, submitted in 2005, recommended the repeal of AFSPA, describing it as "a symbol of oppression" and suggesting that its provisions could be incorporated into existing laws.^[31][32] However, the report was not made public immediately, and its recommendations were not implemented.^[33][34][35]

National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Observations

The NHRC has addressed several cases involving the armed forces in Northeast India.^[36] For instance, in 1994–1995, the NHRC took cognizance of alleged killings of civilians in Ukhrul Town, Manipur, during crossfiring between the 20 Assam Rifles and the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN).^[37] Such interventions by the NHRC underscore the ongoing concerns regarding human rights violations in the region.^[38]

Government Responses

In response to these reports and public outcry, the Indian government has occasionally set up inquiries and, in some instances, withdrawn AFSPA from certain areas.^[39] For example, in April 2022, the government announced the partial repeal of AFSPA from parts of the Northeast, citing improved security situations. However, debates continue over the act's necessity and its implications for human rights.^[40]