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Not‐so‐Freeway: A Relational Approach to Checkpoints and Conflict in Northeast India

Author

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  • Shalaka Thakur

Abstract

Along arterial roads in northeast India, bordering Myanmar, various armed groups and state actors collect ‘taxes’ at checkpoints. These checkpoints are sites of interaction where the power dynamics between armed groups, state officials and civilians are constantly negotiated, embedded in a larger network of social and political relationships. Based on over 100 interviews with armed groups, businesspeople, state actors and truck drivers, this article develops a figurational framework to throw light on the linkages between checkpoints, authorities and civilians in conflict zones. Drawing on Norbert Elias's work, the framework provides a structured yet flexible approach to investigate the interconnectedness of different levels of interdependent relationships — between actors at the checkpoint, along the road, and beyond. The article explores how, together, these figurations at different levels constitute a fluid political order, shaping processes of legitimization and violence. Going beyond providing an understanding of the politics of roads in northeast India, the framework can be used to better investigate power, conflict dynamics and political ordering across conflict zones.

Suggested Citation

  • Shalaka Thakur, 2026. "Not‐so‐Freeway: A Relational Approach to Checkpoints and Conflict in Northeast India," Development and Change, International Institute of Social Studies, vol. 57(3), pages 467-495, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:devchg:v:57:y:2026:i:3:p:467-495
    DOI: 10.1111/dech.70058
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Rachel Sabates-Wheeler & Philip Verwimp, 2014. "Extortion with Protection: Understanding the Effect of Rebel Taxation on Civilian Welfare in Burundi," ULB Institutional Repository 2013/187946, ULB -- Universite Libre de Bruxelles.
    2. Peer Schouten & Vanessa van den Boogaard & Max Gallien & Shalaka Thakur & Florian Weigand, 2026. "The Politics of Passage: Studying Checkpoints and Claim Making in Conflict‐affected Settings," Development and Change, International Institute of Social Studies, vol. 57(3), pages 421-440, May.
    3. repec:idq:ictduk:18170 is not listed on IDEAS
    4. Vibha Arora & Raile Rocky Ziipao, 2020. "The Roads (Not) Taken: The Materiality, Poetics and Politics of Infrastructure in Manipur, India," Journal of South Asian Development, , vol. 15(1), pages 34-61, April.
    Full references (including those not matched with items on IDEAS)

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