Assam Clashes: Bodo-Adivasi Conflict in Kokrajhar District
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Violent clashes between the Bodo and Adivasi communities erupted in assam’s Kokrajhar district on Tuesday, December 19, 2023, following previous mob violence that resulted in one fatality on Monday, December 18, 2023.Authorities deployed the Rapid Action Force (RAF) and suspended internet and mobile data services to control the situation, according to the Press Trust of India report.
Background of the Bodo-Adivasi Conflict
The conflict stems from long-standing tensions over land rights and political depiction between the Bodo people, an indigenous ethnic group, and the Adivasi communities, who are primarily tea garden workers. These tensions have periodically erupted into violence, particularly in the Kokrajhar district, which is part of the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR).
The Bodo people have historically sought greater political autonomy and protection of their cultural identity. The Adivasis, on the other hand, often feel marginalized and demand recognition of their rights as citizens and workers. The BTR was created in 2003 as an autonomous region to address Bodo demands, but disputes over inclusion and land ownership continue to fuel conflict.
Recent Events and Government Response
The immediate trigger for the latest clashes remains unclear, but reports suggest the violence began after a dispute during a local festival. The death on Monday, December 18th, escalated tensions, leading to the widespread clashes on Tuesday. The deployment of the RAF indicates the seriousness of the situation and the government’s attempt to restore order.
The suspension of internet and mobile data services is a common tactic used by authorities in the region to prevent the spread of misinformation and inflammatory content that could further exacerbate the violence. The Assam government has not yet released an official statement detailing the specific measures being taken to address the root causes of the conflict as of January 20, 2026.
Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR)
The Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR) is an autonomous region in Assam,India. It was created in february 2003 under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution. The official Bodoland Tourism website provides details on the region’s governance and history.
The BTR comprises four districts: Kokrajhar, Chirang, Baksa, and Udalguri. The region is administered by the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC), which is an elected body responsible for the growth and welfare of the Bodo people and other communities residing in the area. The BTC operates under the supervision of the Assam government.
Previous Instances of Violence
This is not the first instance of violence between the Bodo and Adivasi communities in Kokrajhar. In 2012, large-scale clashes resulted in the deaths of over 70 people and the displacement of hundreds of thousands. Human Rights Watch documented the 2012 violence, highlighting the failures of the authorities to protect vulnerable communities.
Similar clashes occurred in 2014, leading to further loss of life and displacement. These recurring incidents underscore the need for a long-term solution to address the underlying issues of land rights,political representation,and social justice.
