Photo Courtesy: tripuratimes
Agartala: The Tripura Tribal Customary Law Coordination Committee wants action. They met Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha at his home to demand the immediate codification of 14 tribal customary law bills. These bills remain stuck in limbo despite being passed by the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council on December 28, 2022.
The group represents Pradhan Samajpatis from various Scheduled Tribe communities. They warned that the ongoing delay threatens their traditional customs and identity. The committee stated, "The delay in codification had caused concern among tribal communities over the preservation of their traditional customs, practices and institutions."
Tripura has 19 recognized Scheduled Tribe communities. Many govern themselves through community mediation rather than relying on police or state courts. The TTAADC exists under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution to protect these unique cultural interests. Since the council formed, only the Jamatia Customary Law has become law.
The 14 pending bills cover the Tripura, Reang, Tripuri, Chakma, Garo, Uchoi, Noatia, Murasing, Kaipeng, Rupini, Hrankhawl, Mog, Mizo, and Choroi communities. The TTAADC sent these bills to the state Tribal Welfare Department for the Governor's approval. Some were sent back for fixes, but the process stalled. Tribal leaders now want the state to finish the work so they can keep using their traditional practices under a clear legal framework.
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