2003 South Bhutan clashes

The 2003 South Bhutan clashes were a series of violent confrontations that took place in southern Bhutan, primarily involving the Royal Bhutan Army (RBA) and insurgent groups, particularly the National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB) from India. The unrest was fueled by ethnic tensions and demands for greater autonomy among the ethnic Nepali population in the region. The clashes, which erupted in May 2003, resulted in significant military action by the Bhutanese government aimed at dismantling insurgent hideouts and restoring order. The conflict complicated Bhutan-India relations, as the Indian government provided support to Bhutan in suppressing the insurgency, highlighting the geopolitical intricacies of South Asian security dynamics. The clashes raised concerns over human rights issues and the displacement of civilians.