The Political Demography of Assam's Anti-Immigrant Movement

The political implications of large-scale illegal migration from Bangladesh to Assam India are considered. The author notes that Assamese middle classes feared the loss of political control when the central government called for elections after there was a marked increase in the number of migrants on the electoral rolls while Assamese and tribal cultivators reacted against land encroachments. The ensuing violent conflict is the most recent in a series of confrontations between Assamese and a succession of migrant groups that have entered the state since the early part of the nineteenth century. The interrelationship of political and demographic factors in the governance of the state is emphasized. (summary in FRE SPA) (EXCERPT)