Indigenous people in India are spread out all across the subcontinent and in number some 700 distinct tribes exists as per Indian constitution. Indian constitution has acknowledged and protected several indigenous rights. Indian Constitution, through articles 244 and 244A protects tribal areas and gives special rights under fifth and sixth schedule. The principle of Tribal self-rule was accepted in Indian Constitution through its 73rd amendment by following the framework laid down by the Bhuria Committee Report. In India Tribes are also known as ‘adivasi’; which literally mean ‘first dweller’ or original inhabitant. Indian Constitution defines them as ‘Scheduled tribe’.
Author:
Nitesh Nanavati, Assistant Professor, Unitedworld School of Law (UWSL)
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