Everyday Racism: The Struggles of Northeast Indians in India

The Reality of Stereotypes

"You people eat dogs, cats, pigs, and all your animals, right?" This question was often directed at Riba because she hails from India’s Northeast. Despite her position at a high-profile firm, she faced relentless stereotypes. Friends, colleagues, and acquaintances habitually questioned her food habits, appearance, and even her language. What hurt the most was the casualness of these inquiries; many failed to recognize the prejudice behind their words. Riba recounts, "It definitely triggered me to be questioned every day about what I eat, how I look, and where I belong."

Rising Tensions: The Anjel Chakma Incident

A Fatal Outing

On December 9, a routine visit to a local market in Dehradun turned tragic for 24-year-old Anjel Chakma from Tripura. He and his brother, Michael, who were preparing for an upcoming trek, faced racial slurs such as "Chinki," "Chinese," and "Momo." One assailant jeered, "Oye Chinese, have you come to buy pork?" Anjel courageously responded, "We are not Chinese… We are Indians. What certificate should we show to prove that?" Tragically, this assertion led to a brutal attack, leaving Anjel severely injured and Michael in critical condition.

A Broader Pattern of Prejudice

Continuous Abuse in Urban Spaces

Similar incidents occur with alarming frequency. Arjun Rimo from Arunachal Pradesh experienced racial slurs while shopping in Delhi. He was called "Chinese" while purchasing meat and faced assault when he objected. For many from the Northeast, stepping outside their region means engaging with suspicion and stereotypes as part of their daily lives.

Discrimination in Professional Settings

Corporate Challenges in Bengaluru

Sushma Pegu, employed at a high-profile firm in Bengaluru, encountered discrimination even in corporate spaces. Colleagues bullied her and asked derogatory questions about her food habits. "Do you even get Maggi there?" a colleague asked, as if her lifestyle was alien to them. Despite standing up to this prejudice and seeing the colleague terminated, she still faces questions about her identity whenever she leaves her home.

Increased Prejudice During the Pandemic

Fear Amid Covid-19

Roshni’s experiences during the Covid-19 pandemic revealed how racial prejudice escalated during this time. She recalls students mocking her appearance at Lakshmibai College, which left her feeling deeply humiliated. This atmosphere of fear and exclusion resonates with many individuals from the Northeast who find themselves isolated in different parts of the country.

Systemic Issues: The Case of Nido Taniam

A Tragic Legacy of Violence

Incidents of racial abuse have plagued India for years. The tragic case of Nido Taniam, a 19-year-old from Arunachal Pradesh, who was killed in 2014 after being mocked for his appearance, ignited national outrage. This incident illuminated the severe lack of protection against racial discrimination, prompting discussions on the necessity for legal reforms.

The Need for Legal Reforms

A Legal Vacuum for Racial Discrimination

Despite India being a signatory to the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination, no specific laws tackle racial abuse. The MP Bezbaruah Committee called for criminalization of racial slurs, but proposed changes remain pending. As racial incidents persist, the call for stronger enforcement and educational initiatives grows increasingly urgent.

Conclusion: Towards a More Inclusive Society

While stronger laws are essential, they must be supplemented with educational initiatives that address diversity and discrimination. The fight for equality must involve police, institutions, political parties, and society as a whole. Multiculturalism should not be a mere slogan; it must be actively practiced to foster true inclusivity in India.