The Tripura Tribal Customary Law Coordination Committee has urged Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha to expedite the process of granting legal recognition to the traditional laws of the state’s 19 Scheduled Tribes.
A delegation of the committee, consisting of traditional community leaders and representatives from various tribal groups, met the Chief Minister at his official residence and submitted a memorandum highlighting the long-pending issue.
The committee stated that the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) had unanimously approved several customary law bills on December 28, 2022, covering different tribal communities. However, the bills are still awaiting final approval from the state government.
According to the committee, the delay in codification has raised concerns over the preservation of tribal customs, social systems, cultural practices, and traditional forms of governance. It emphasised that each of Tripura’s 19 Scheduled Tribes has its own distinct identity, language, traditions, and customary practices.
The committee referred to the provisions of the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution and said the recognition of customary laws is essential for safeguarding the cultural and social interests of tribal communities.
It further stated that while the Jamatia customary law has received legal recognition, similar laws of other tribal communities are yet to be implemented. The committee appealed to the Chief Minister to ensure early completion of the codification process so that tribal communities can continue to preserve and practise their traditional customs under a recognised legal framework.
