Act East Policy and ASEAN Connectivity: Political Turmoil and Security Challenges in India’s North East

India’s Act East Policy represents a strategic and economic blueprint to position the country as a regional power in Southeast Asia through enhanced connectivity and cooperation with ASEAN member states. North East India, sharing long international borders and holding immense geostrategic value, plays a pivotal role in this framework. However, the region is entrenched in political instability, ethnic conflict, insurgent activity, and underdevelopment, which collectively challenge the policy's implementation. This article examines the security, political, and structural constraints within the North East that hinder the realisation of India’s connectivity vision with ASEAN. It further explores the implications of militarisation, governance deficits, and cross-border pressures, offering critical insights and policy recommendations for reconciling internal conflict with external engagement.