Human Rights Crisis amongst IDPs in Assam: Issues and Challenges

The IDPs i.e., Internally Displaced Persons residing in various relief camps of different districts of Assam constitute one of the most marginalized sections of the contemporary Assamese society.          They are victims of armed conflict and ethnic violence in the western part of Assam. The story of suffering and atrocities against the IDPs started with displacement from their home or native place, which turned worse in the relief camps. Inmates of relief camps lead a life that is far away from the basic humanitarian needs. Internally displaced women and girls remain exposed to sexual and gender-based violence.    

There is no specific international document for the protection of IDPs. As the IDPs fall under the sovereignty of their government and as such, they are entitled to full protection under the domestic law and enjoyment of rights as that of other nationals. But, in practice, the Government of any country, not exempting the Government of India has always been reluctant to provide equal treatment to this marginalized section of the society as that of other nationals.

So, the main objectives of this research paper are-

1.      To provide a theoretical analysis of human rights crises amongst IDPs in Assam

2.      To search for a legal mechanism for the protection of their rights.