Introduction
This answer covers two important topics relevant to India’s tribal and marginalized populations: (a) Indigenous populations and (b) De-notified communities. Both categories highlight social groups that have historically been excluded or exploited and are now the focus of welfare and human rights efforts.
a. Indigenous Populations
Definition
Indigenous populations are communities that are native to a particular region or country and have distinct social, cultural, economic, and political traditions. Globally, indigenous people are recognized under international frameworks such as the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP).
Features of Indigenous Populations
- They have a long-standing historical connection to a specific territory.
- Distinct language, customs, rituals, and belief systems.
- Strong communal bonds and kinship-based social organization.
- Sustainable lifestyle closely tied to nature and natural resources.
Indigenous Populations in India
- India does not officially use the term “indigenous” but recognizes tribal communities as “Scheduled Tribes.”
- These groups are considered India’s indigenous people due to their ancient presence and unique cultures.
- Examples include the Santhal, Munda, Bhil, Gond, and Jarawa tribes.
Issues Faced by Indigenous Populations
- Displacement due to industrialization, mining, and infrastructure development.
- Lack of access to healthcare, education, and livelihood opportunities.
- Cultural erosion due to assimilation into mainstream society.
- Environmental degradation affecting traditional ways of life.
Legal Protection
- Articles 15, 46, and 244 of the Indian Constitution provide safeguards for Scheduled Tribes.
- Fifth and Sixth Schedules offer special administrative protections.
- Forest Rights Act (2006) recognizes traditional forest dwellers’ land and resource rights.
b. De-notified Communities
Definition
De-notified communities are social groups that were previously classified as “criminal tribes” under the Criminal Tribes Act of 1871 during British rule. These tribes were stigmatized and monitored as hereditary criminals. After India gained independence, the Act was repealed in 1952, and these communities were “de-notified.”
Key Features
- Includes over 150 communities in India such as the Banjara, Pardhi, Nat, and Kanjar.
- Continue to face social stigma, police surveillance, and marginalization.
- Often lack formal recognition and documentation, affecting access to welfare schemes.
Challenges Faced
- Stigma and Discrimination: Continued labeling as “criminals” affects employment, education, and housing.
- Identity Crisis: Some communities are not recognized as Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), or Other Backward Classes (OBC), excluding them from reservations.
- Economic Vulnerability: Engage in unorganized labor with no social security or stable income.
Government Interventions
- Renke Commission (2008): Recommended urgent inclusion and benefits for these communities.
- NCDNHEP (National Commission for De-notified, Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic Tribes): Formed to suggest development measures.
- Educational Scholarships, Housing Support: Various central and state schemes aim to uplift these communities.
Conclusion
Both indigenous populations and de-notified communities represent historically marginalized groups in India. While indigenous tribes face challenges related to displacement and development, de-notified tribes continue to suffer the legacy of colonial criminalization. Addressing their issues requires targeted policies, recognition, and social awareness to ensure justice, dignity, and equal opportunities.