Page 1 — Introduction and Context 
India, known for its cultural and ethnic diversity, is facing increasing internal tensions that disproportionately affect minority groups. Clashes between ethnic communities, fuelled by political, religious, and regional divides, have led to violence, discrimination, and displacement. 

For many, insecurity and persecution have made migration the only option. As a result, more Indian citizens are seeking refuge abroad, hoping to escape cycles of conflict and intolerance. 

Page 2 — Historical and Political Background 
India has long been home to hundreds of ethnic and linguistic groups, with a history of both coexistence and conflict. Since independence in 1947, ethnic tensions have periodically erupted, from communal riots to separatist insurgencies in regions such as Kashmir and the Northeast. 

In recent years, political polarisation and the rise of nationalist rhetoric have deepened these divides. Policies seen as favouring majority groups have left minorities feeling excluded and vulnerable. State responses to ethnic clashes are often criticised as biased or ineffective, further eroding trust. 

Page 3 — Forms of Ethnic Tensions and Violence 
Ethnic and communal tensions in India manifest in multiple forms: 

- Communal riots: Violent clashes between religious and ethnic groups leading to deaths and displacement. 
- Discrimination in jobs and housing: Minority groups often face barriers in employment and urban settlement. 
- Targeted violence: Attacks on Muslims, Dalits, and tribal communities in both rural and urban settings. 
- Regional tensions: Separatist conflicts and insurgencies in Kashmir and the Northeast. 
- Political rhetoric: Nationalist speeches that stigmatise minorities and legitimise hostility. 

These tensions reinforce cycles of fear and displacement. 

Page 4 — Consequences for Citizens and Society 
The rise of ethnic tensions has devastating consequences. Families are uprooted, losing homes, livelihoods, and social networks. Many minorities face long-term insecurity, living under threat of violence or discrimination. 

Migration has become a survival strategy, with Indian citizens seeking refuge in Europe, North America, and neighbouring countries. While migration provides safety, it also contributes to brain drain, weakening India’s social and economic development. 

For society, rising intolerance undermines India’s pluralistic identity and threatens its constitutional commitment to equality. 

Page 5 — Solutions and Conclusion 
Addressing ethnic tensions in India requires both immediate protections and long-term reforms. 

Key steps include: 
- Strengthening protections: ensure security forces act impartially during communal violence. 
- Legal accountability: prosecute perpetrators of ethnic violence without bias. 
- Inclusive policies: promote equal opportunities for minorities in jobs, education, and housing. 
- Community initiatives: expand interfaith and interethnic dialogue programmes. 
- International cooperation: encourage rights-based engagement to protect vulnerable groups. 

Until such reforms are implemented, ethnic tensions will continue to push Indian citizens to seek refuge abroad, weakening the nation’s unity and its reputation as a diverse and democratic society.