Understanding the theories of Internally Displaced Persons

Birendra Laishram *

Understanding the theories of Internally Displaced Persons :: Pix - TSE

When a community survive with the sole objective to establish a designated area that is exclusively reserved for its own members, this significant process is typically possible on the ability of its leaders to effectively exert influence over political officials and law enforcement agencies.

This influence can manifest through various means, including bribery or by providing political support during election campaigns or trying to place the men of their community in the top position in civil or police administration. Such tactics are often employed to secure favourable outcomes that align with the community’s interests.

This quest for exclusive control frequently results in targeted attacks arising between different communities, as tensions over territorial claims can escalate.

In these situations, it is not uncommon for law enforcement to respond by forced movement of people within the area of their own community due to conflict, violence, human rights violation, from the area in question to designated safe zones, effectively prioritizing logistical removals over direct protection efforts for the affected community members, as for instance in Meitei Kuki clashes, Meitei from Kuki dominated areas and Kuki from Meitei populated area were evacuated instead of giving the Government protection.

Historically, this response has frequently marked the initial step toward processes that lead to forms of ethnic segregation or separation in various parts of the world. It is important to note that such clashes, along with the unjust evacuations that often accompany them, cannot take place without the implicit or explicit approval of the Government authorities involved.

Such action of the Government represents a significant and pressing global issue, affecting millions around the world. When Governments choose to favour one community over another or implement policies that systematically disadvantage certain groups, it can trigger forced displacement and escalate ethnic tensions within and between communities.

This alarming phenomenon can be seen in various regions across the globe that are currently grappling with large-scale population movements, leading to continued and multifaceted humanitarian challenges. The use of displacement as a deliberate strategy to control or segregate populations exacerbates existing conflicts, making the quest for lasting peace and stability increasingly intricate and elusive.

Addressing this multifaceted issue requires a robust and comprehensive approach that not only tackles the underlying causes of these conflicts but also ensures the protection and rights of displaced individuals.

Additionally, it is essential to promote reconciliation among diverse groups and foster social integration to mitigate the effects of these displacements. Although forced displacement is generally recognized as a violation of fundamental human rights and international law, it often serves several tactical purposes that

(1) Governments or armed groups may resort to the displacement of populations as a method to assert their control over a particular area or to intentionally separate ethnic groups, thereby trying to gain a strategic advantage.

(2) In some instances, displacement can facilitate easier and more direct access to valuable natural resources, such as fertile land for plantation of narcotic herbs and for extraction of minerals and precious plants/trees, which can be a primary motivation behind such actions.

(3) Displacement is occasionally framed as a necessary security measure or preventative action. However, such justifications often lead to further suffering and a detrimental cycle of violence.

The practice of displacing communities can also serve to alter demographic balances, allowing for political advantages such as shifting voter populations or undermining opposition groups, thereby transforming the political landscape to favour those in power.

Across numerous countries, the struggle with high numbers of forcibly displaced individuals continues to be a pressing concern, primarily due to on-going conflict, violence, persecution, and widespread human rights abuses. Nations such as Syria, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Myanmar, Somalia, and Sudan are among the hardest-hit, with millions affected by these tumultuous situations.

The circumstances in these regions starkly illustrate the tragic reality of forced displacement and highlight the urgent need for comprehensive international efforts aimed at addressing both the immediate humanitarian needs of those displaced and the long-term solutions that can prevent future displacements.

In India, ethnic conflicts often lead to community displacements due to violence and social unrest, rather than addressing underlying issues.

Here are some key examples

Kashmiri Pandits : The insurgency in Jammu and Kashmir in the late 1980s and early 1990s forced many Kashmiri Pandits to flee to escape targeted violence. This has resulted in long-term displacement, adversely affecting their community and identity.

Many ended up in refugee camps in Jammu and surrounding areas, while wealthier families relocated to safer places, including abroad. However, Government efforts to facilitate their return have been slow and face significant obstacles, especially regarding security, leaving many still in camps or settled elsewhere in India.

North-East India: Conflicts in Assam, Manipur, and Nagaland have displaced various communities. Clashes often occur between groups, such as the Naga and Kuki, or the Kuki and Meitei in Manipur, and between Bodos and Muslims in Assam.

As a result, people are forced to flee for safety. The experiences of these communities regarding their return differ widely; some have been able to go back, while many still reside in relief camps or have moved to other areas, grappling with ongoing tensions and insecurity.

Chhattisgarh : The ongoing conflict between Maoist insurgents and Government forces has severely affected tribal communities, forcing many to leave their homes due to violence. The Government’s resettlement efforts frequently neglect the specific needs of these communities, resulting in limited success. Displaced individuals often remain in camps or migrate to urban areas in search of safety and better opportunities.

These displacements highlight deep-rooted socio-political issues and are more reactions to violence than effective conflict resolution strategies. Displaced communities face significant long-term challenges, including loss of livelihoods, cultural disruptions, and persistent instability stemming from their forced departures.

Resettlement opportunities differ significantly across regions in India. Overall, efforts to support the return and resettlement of displaced communities are complicated by the conflicts, security concerns, and insufficient support systems, making the situations of these vulnerable populations even more challenging.