History and Conflicts of the Bodo Tribe.docx

Bodo tribe of Assam

1. The Bodo Tribe of Assam: History, Conflicts, and
Autonomy
The Bodo tribe of Assam, particularly within the Bodoland Territorial Areas Districts
(BTAD), possesses a deep and ancient lineage, originating from the Tibeto-Burman
family with early migrations from regions near Tibet and China.
Traditionally an agrarian community, the Bodos cultivated rice and other crops,
practiced animal husbandry, and maintained unique socio-cultural and religious
traditions, including Bathouism, which centered on the worship of natural elements.
Their society is patriarchal, and they uphold distinctive customs and festivals.
Historical Challenges and Autonomy Movements
Historically, the Bodos encountered significant obstacles concerning land alienation and
the preservation of their cultural identity, especially during and after the British colonial
era and Indian independence. The continuous migration of non-tribal settlers and
immigrants exerted pressure on land and resources, frequently resulting in conflicts.
The Bodos' persistent demand for recognition, autonomy, and the protection of their
ancestral lands led to a series of political movements. These efforts culminated in the
establishment of the Bodoland Autonomous Council (BAC) and subsequently the
Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC), with the objective of achieving self-governance and
cultural preservation.
Ethnic and Intra-tribal Conflicts
Ethnic Conflicts
Conflicts involving the Bodos can be broadly classified into ethnic and intra-tribal
categories. Ethnic conflicts primarily erupted between the Bodos and adjacent
communities, including Bengali-speaking Muslims, Santhals, Rajbongshis, and
Assamese. For example, violent confrontations with Santhal groups, notably the militant
Birsa Commando Force advocating for a separate Jharkhand area, triggered ethnic riots
that resulted in substantial loss of life and displacement. Similarly, disputes with Muslim
settlers and other immigrant groups over land rights and identity led to violent incidents,
particularly in the 1990s and early 2000s.
Intra-tribal Conflicts
Intra-tribal conflicts within the Bodo community largely stemmed from ideological and
political divergences among various factions and militant organizations. Differing
viewpoints on the pursuit of autonomy and statehood created tensions among groups

2. such as the National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB) and the Bodo Liberation
Tigers (BLT). These internal disagreements occasionally escalated into armed
confrontations and violence within the Bodo community itself. Political schisms, such as
the division within the Bodo People Party, further complicated the movement for a
unified Bodo identity.
Conclusion
In summation, the Bodo struggle embodies a protracted pursuit of socio-political
identity, economic development, and cultural survival. Despite the establishment of
autonomous councils and the signing of accords, persistent land disputes, ethnic
tensions, and political factionalism continue to affect peace and stability in the BTAD
region. This reflects the intricate nature of identity and territorial claims among the
Bodos and other communities residing in the area.