Securing the Chicken’s Neck: Combating Demographic and Radicalization Threats to Northeast India
The strategic vulnerability of the ‘Chicken’s Neck Corridor’ in North Bengal—a narrow stretch connecting mainland India to the northeastern states—has long been recognized as a potential target for hostile forces. The region’s shifting demographics and rising radicalization present an imminent security threat, demanding urgent and comprehensive action from the Union Government.
Historically, the Chicken’s Neck Corridor, comprising northern parts of Bengal’s Uttar Dinajpur and southern sections of Darjeeling district, was predominantly Hindu-majority. Over recent decades, however, the unchecked influx of illegal immigrants from Bangladesh and, more recently, Rohingya refugees from Myanmar, has dramatically altered the region’s demographic makeup. Today, areas surrounding the corridor are becoming Muslim-majority, with many infiltrators reportedly receiving support from the state’s ruling political parties.
This influx extends beyond North Bengal into bordering districts of Assam and Bihar, such as Kishanganj and Purnea. Alarmingly, the demographic transformation is spreading to the traditionally Gorkha-dominated Darjeeling hills and even into Sikkim. Intelligence reports have repeatedly flagged this demographic shift as a critical threat to national security, yet political patronage has stalled effective countermeasures.
Radical Islamist groups, including affiliates of Ansarullah Bangla Team (ABT), Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB), and ISIS-linked organizations, have reportedly taken advantage of this demographic shift. These groups organize large congregations in the corridor and surrounding areas, aiming to incite anti-India sentiments among the populace. Radical preachers, often linked to Salafi sects, spread their ideology through madrassas and mosques, urging local Muslims to oppose the Indian state and align with Islamist agendas.
The seeds of this subversion are evident in inflammatory speeches and online propaganda advocating the severing of the Chicken’s Neck Corridor from India. Some leaders even call for the corridor’s merger with Bangladesh, leveraging shared religious and cultural ties. Videos and intelligence reports indicate increasing efforts to radicalize local youths, fueling unrest that could escalate into open rebellion.
The Islamist blueprint for severing the corridor—part of the larger ‘Ghazwa-e-Hind’ (Islamist conquest of India) narrative—envisions a multi-pronged strategy. This includes cutting off critical road and rail links, targeting infrastructure, and provoking violent confrontations with security forces. Intelligence agencies warn that such a scenario would likely unfold during a moment of national crisis, such as an internal conflict or an external military threat.
The plan also anticipates significant bloodshed, aiming to draw international attention to the region. By portraying themselves as victims of state retaliation, Islamist groups hope to invite external intervention, further complicating India’s response.
The political dynamics in West Bengal exacerbate the problem. Successive state governments, including the current Trinamool Congress regime and its predecessor, the Left Front, have allegedly facilitated the settlement of illegal immigrants to secure a loyal vote bank. These infiltrators often acquire official documents through fraudulent means, making it nearly impossible for the Union Government to take action against them.
This political complicity has emboldened radical elements and undermined national security efforts. The Bengal government’s reluctance to monitor radical activities or crack down on Islamist organizations further compounds the threat.
Security and defense experts unanimously agree that India must urgently formulate a contingency plan to safeguard the Chicken’s Neck Corridor. Key elements of this strategy should include:
- Demographic Audit and Citizenship Verification: Conduct a thorough audit to identify and deport illegal immigrants. This will require robust coordination between central agencies and local governments, backed by judicial oversight to address legal challenges.
- Enhanced Border Security: Strengthen border infrastructure and deploy additional personnel to curb illegal immigration. Technological solutions such as drones and advanced surveillance systems can complement these efforts.
- Counter-Radicalization Programs: Initiate programs to counter extremist ideologies, focusing on education, community engagement, and monitoring of madrassas and religious institutions.
- Rapid Response Units: Establish special rapid response teams equipped to neutralize threats swiftly. These units should have a permanent presence in the corridor and its vicinity.
- Bilateral Engagement with Bangladesh: Work with the Bangladeshi government to crack down on cross-border radical networks and manage the influx of refugees.
- Legislative Reforms: Amend laws to empower the central government to override state authorities in matters of national security. This would ensure that political considerations do not impede action.
- Community Integration: Promote inclusive development in the region to foster a sense of belonging among local communities, reducing their susceptibility to radical influences.
Given the Bengal government’s track record of inaction, the Union Government may need to take unilateral measures. Strong punitive actions against non-cooperation, such as withholding central funds or invoking emergency provisions, could compel the state to align with national security objectives.
The threat to the Chicken’s Neck Corridor is neither abstract nor distant. It is a clear and present danger that could imperil the integrity of India. Ignoring this issue any longer would be catastrophic. The Union Government must act decisively to implement a multi-faceted strategy, securing the corridor and addressing the underlying causes of instability. National security cannot afford to be a casualty of political expediency. (Concluded)
