Hills, Homeland, and Identity: The Karbi Struggle for Recognition in Assam’s Political Landscape

Abstract

The Karbi people, one of the largest tribal groups in Assam’s hill districts, have been central to the politics of identity and autonomy in Northeast India. Their collective struggle has roots in colonial rule, post-independence reorganization, and development policies that often left hill communities marginalized. The assertion of Karbi identity is deeply connected to demands for homeland, recognition, and equitable development. This article traces the evolution of Karbi political movements, beginning with the creation of the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC) and extending to ongoing campaigns for full statehood. It underscores how uneven development, insurgent activities, and complex inter-ethnic dynamics have shaped their political aspirations. The Karbi demand for autonomy highlights not only concerns over socio-economic neglect but also the pursuit of dignity and self-determination within a multi-ethnic context. Using historical records, government reports, and scholarly insights, the study situates the Karbi movement within larger debates on federalism, multiculturalism, and democratic accommodation in India. While constitutional provisions promise autonomy, lived realities often reflect marginalization. The Karbi experience thus illustrates the broader tensions between recognition and governance in diverse societies, revealing how local struggles are tied to wider questions of justice, identity, and national integration.