Gender Implications of Tribal Customary Law

"Gender Implications of Tribal Customary Law" should be read against the backdrop of renewed calls from many tribes to strengthen the customary law regime among the tribal communities of North-East India. The contributors to this volume examine the changing status of women in the interface of the customary law with the forces of modernisation. The distinct origin, practice, and prevalence of tribal customary law is outlined here, with a complete analysis of the role played by women in moulding lives, guiding families, and building societies. The articles in the book represent the tribal communities of the Seven Sisters of North-East India. They look into the changing role of women in the arena of education, economy, religion, and politics. While capturing the stories of women at the grassroots, the contributors do not hesitate to pinpoint the lacuna in the law system in addressing the new issues that have arisen due to the rapid changes taking place due to market forces. Most importantly, the articles point out the in-built limitations of the customary law that deny legitimate rights to women in inheriting property, accessing maintenance rights in case of divorce, and participation in the political bodies of the village and state at large. It is hoped that the issues raised in this book will encourage further reflection and work for the emergence of a society in which women may enjoy their rightful place. Subject: Gender Studies, Anthropology, India Studies, India Law]