Who are the seven sisters and why they want freedom ?

The northeastern region of India is geographically isolated from the rest of the country and shares borders with countries such as China, Myanmar, Bangladesh and Bhutan. 

The various ethnic and tribal groups living in these states are isolated from mainland India for certain reasons.

After India gained independence in 1947, the integration of the northeastern states into the Indian Union was a complex process. 

Many tribes and ethnic groups in the region had distinct identities and were concerned about their cultural preservation. 

Fearing the loss of their identity, some groups became vocal in their demand for independence.

Some groups in the northeastern region feel politically marginalized by the central government. They believe that their voice is not heard in decision-making processes that affect their lives. This neglect and dissatisfaction fueled separatist sentiments.

The Northeast region is relatively underdeveloped compared to other parts of India. There is less economic opportunity, poor infrastructure and lack of access to basic services such as healthcare and education. 

Economic grievances and desperation for more control over local resources fueled their demands.

In some cases, historical events contributed to separatist movements. For example, the Naga insurgency in Nagaland began in the 1950s, when the Naga National Council (NNC) declared independence from India. 

Similarly, groups in Manipur and Assam have long-standing grievances regarding land, resources and political representation.

The Naga insurgency is one of the oldest separatist movements in the region. The National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN) is the most prominent party demanding independence or greater autonomy for Nagaland. 

But in recent years, peace talks have taken place between the Indian government and various Naga factions. As of 2024, although the demand for a separate "Nagalim" (Greater Nagaland) still exists, a solution is being negotiated within the Indian Union.

In Manipur, separatist groups such as the United National Liberation Front (UNLF) and the People's Liberation Army (PLA) sought independence from India. 

Although these groups have been involved in armed resistance, violence has declined in recent years. In 2024, ongoing efforts are underway to mainstream these parties through dialogue. 

But now Manipur has become quite turbulent.

Assam saw an insurgency led by groups such as the United Liberation Front of Assam (ULFA), which sought to establish an independent Assam. 

In recent years, ULFA has split, with some factions engaged in peace talks and others continuing resistance. 

In 2024, the situation is tense but comparatively more peaceful than the previous decade.

In Tripura, separatist movements were led by tribal groups such as the National Liberation Front of Tripura (NLFT), but violence has declined significantly. 

Many militants have surrendered and the state is working towards peace and development.

Some groups have taken their cause to international forums to gain support for their freedom movement. 

However, these efforts did not gain significant global support and India maintained control over the region.

There have been allegations that neighboring countries have supported some separatist movements in the North-East. 

However, these connections are often difficult to prove definitively. Countries like China and Myanmar have been mentioned in various reports but evidence of their involvement is not clear.

China: Some groups in India's northeast, particularly the Naga and Manipuri insurgents, are alleged to have received arms and training from China. 

Historically, China has been reported to have supported these rebels in the 1960s and 1970s. 

However, China's involvement is believed to have decreased in recent years. 

In 2024, while there are still concerns about Chinese influence, there is no direct evidence of large-scale support.

Myanmar: 

Myanmar is another significant player in the region due to its porous border with India's northeastern states. 

Some separatist groups have established bases in Myanmar's border areas, taking advantage of the rugged terrain and weak border enforcement. 

Myanmar's Kachin Independence Army (KIA) has also been linked to training Indian rebel groups.

In the past, separatist groups, especially in Assam and Tripura, used Bangladesh as a safe haven. 

However, in recent years, the Bangladeshi government has cooperated with India in suppressing the insurgency. 

In 2024, Bangladesh is no longer seen as a significant source of support for these groups.

Development of the region remains a priority for the Government of India. Investments in infrastructure, healthcare, education and tourism have helped improve living standards. 

However, the challenges of geographic isolation, ethnic diversity and historical grievances fuel some level of instability.

The international community has generally supported India's territorial integrity and there is no widespread recognition of separatist movements. 

External support from neighboring countries, although a concern, appears to have declined in recent years.