PROXY WAR AND INSURGENCY IN NORTHEAST INDIA: ANALYZING THE STRATEGIC AND SECURITY IMPLICATIONS OF FOREIGN INFLUENCE
AUTHORS – HIJAM ROSHAN SINGH1 & DR. S. JAMES2
1 PHD RESEARCH SCHOLAR, DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE & STRATEGIC STUDIES, MANIPUR INTRANATIONAL UNIVERSITY, IMPHAL, MANIPUR-795140, INDIA
2 PROFESSOR, DEPARTMENT OF DEFENCE & STRATEGIC STUDIES, MANIPUR INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY, IMPHAL, MANIPUR-795140, INDIA
BEST CITATION – HIJAM ROSHAN SINGH & DR. S. JAMES, PROXY WAR AND INSURGENCY IN NORTHEAST INDIA: ANALYZING THE STRATEGIC AND SECURITY IMPLICATIONS OF FOREIGN INFLUENCE, INDIAN JOURNAL OF LEGAL REVIEW (IJLR), 5 (1) OF 2025, PG. 822-827, APIS – 3920 – 0001 & ISSN – 2583-2344.
ABSTRACT
This paper explores the strategic dimensions of proxy wars in the Northeast India, focusing on foreign interventions, cross-border sanctuaries, and arms trafficking. It examines the role of neighbouring states such as China, Myanmar, Bangladesh, and Pakistan in fuelling insurgency, directly or indirectly, through logistical and ideological support. The situation regarding proxy warfare involving the Indo-Myanmar adjoining boarders and the use of Zo-Kuki militants in the Indo-Myanmar border regions, particularly in Naga villages like Wanglee in Kamjong District, Manipur is both complex and tragic. Allegations have emerged that the Assam Rifles have collaborated with certain militant groups to further their strategic objectives, resulting in violence against innocent civilians. This proxy warfare approach has led to a cycle of retribution and conflict, exacerbating the already tense relations among different ethnic communities in the region. In areas such as Wanglee, civilians have faced dire consequences, including displacement, loss of life, and the destruction of property due to clashes instigated by these proxy operations. The involvement of Zo-Kuki militants, allegedly supported by state forces, has intensified fears within local populations, who find themselves caught between insurgent activities and military operations. The situation raises critical questions about the ethics of using proxy forces in counterinsurgency operations and the impact of such strategies on civilians. It underscores the urgent need for accountability and oversight to prevent further human rights violations while addressing the underlying issues of ethno-nationalism and separatist sentiments that fuel the ongoing insurgency. Overall, the reliance on proxy forces not only undermines trust in government institutions but also perpetuates a cycle of violence that severely affects the lives of innocent people in these vulnerable border regions.
Keywords: Proxy war, insurgency, northeast India, foreign influence, security, insurgency.