Addressing Racism Against Northeast Indians: A Call for Awareness

The Ongoing Struggle Against Racism

Racism manifests in various forms, and in India, particularly in the northern regions, individuals from the Northeast have faced relentless hostility for years. Many of these incidents remain unreported due to a media that often overlooks them as insignificant news. However, some cases, like the recent vandalism of a shop called the 'Northeast Shop' in Delhi's Vijay Nagar, where the owner was assaulted by a group over allegations of selling beef, have gained media attention.

The response from the Delhi Police highlights a troubling mindset; instead of apprehending the attackers, they opted to collect a meat sample for forensic testing to ascertain if it was cow meat. This incident exemplifies how societal divisions are exploited by dominant groups to assert a false sense of cultural superiority.

At the core of this issue lies the fact that many individuals from the Northeast possess Mongoloid features, which can lead to suspicion and discrimination based on their appearance and cultural practices.

Reflecting on past events, one recalls the widespread violence against Northeast Indians over a decade ago, which resulted in a mass exodus fueled by rumors and hate. Although there has been some progress in reducing racism through increased interaction, it still persists, as evidenced by the tragic murder of Nido Tania from Arunachal Pradesh in 2024, who was killed simply for being perceived as 'foreign.'

Today, individuals from the Northeast continue to face skepticism and struggle to find housing in other parts of India, often facing prejudice against their cultural practices, despite many tribal customs being among the cleanest in the country. The key to overcoming the marginalization of Northeast communities lies in educating the broader population about India's 'unity in diversity.'

On a positive note, an increasing number of visitors from other regions are discovering the Northeast's stunning landscapes, warm hospitality, and unique cuisine. These visitors should be encouraged to share their experiences, helping to dismantle deep-seated biases.