Racialization of Northeastern People in Indian Metropolitan Cities: Difference, Racism, and Identity.

This article examines the racialization of people from Northeast India in metropolitan Indian cities, focusing on the historical, political, and social processes that shape their experiences of racism and identity construction. It traces the roots of this racialization to colonial race science, early 20th-century Assamese elite narratives, and post-colonial state policies, highlighting how these have persisted and evolved through economic liberalization and increased migration since the 1990s. Drawing on extensive fieldwork, the article analyzes how Northeastern identity is articulated by the community itself, the broader society, and the state, revealing ongoing exclusion, stereotyping, and cultural marginalization within the Indian mainstream. It also discusses recent institutional responses, including legal measures and cultural programs, aimed at addressing discrimination and promoting Northeast identities. The study contributes to broader discussions on racism and racialization beyond Western contexts by situating the Northeast experience within India's unique socio-political landscape.