Discuss the contribution of P.K. Bhowmick in decriminalising the status of the Lodha tribe. (15 Marks) Anthropology Optional Paper CSE 2024

sonam75

October 4, 2024

1 View 2 comments

SaveSavedRemoved 0

Discuss the contribution of P.K. Bhowmick in decriminalising the status of the Lodha tribe.

(15 Marks) Anthropology Optional Paper CSE 2024

Introduction

Renowned Indian anthropologist P.K. Bhowmick made important advances in our knowledge of some of India’s most marginalized people, especially the West Bengali Lodha tribe. Due to the Criminal Tribes Act of 1871, a colonial order that labeled entire populations as inherited criminals, the Lodhas were traditionally categorized as a “criminal tribe”. This status persisted until the lifting of prohibition in 1952, but the negative connotation of criminal tribes persisted. Bhowmick’s efforts and studies played a major role in the legalization and social and economic marginalization of the Lodha tribe. For more details, visit contribution of P.K. Bhowmick in decriminalising

Main Body

Background on the Lodha Tribe:

Native to West Bengal, the Jhargram and West Midnapore districts are home to the Lodha tribe. As a result of their labeling as a “criminal tribe” under British colonial rule, they experienced institutionalized persecution as well as social and economic marginalization.
Because of the Criminal Tribes Act, the Lodhas were still targeted by discrimination, denied opportunities, and constant surveillance by law enforcement even after India attained freedom.

P.K. Bhowmick’s Anthropological Work:

P.K. Bhowmick worked with the Lodha tribe for a long time, recording their social structure, customs, and economic struggles. His anthropological research brought to light the myths and prejudices surrounding the tribe’s alleged criminal activity.
Through his work, Bhowmick showed that the Lodhas’ criminal reputation was not based on their intrinsic qualities but rather was the result of colonial policies that uprooted their traditional ways of life, drove them into poverty, and occasionally drove them to commit small-time crimes in order to survive.

Efforts in Decriminalization:

Bhowmick’s in-depth reports and ethnographic research disproved the idea that the Lodhas were prone to criminal activity by offering a sociological perspective of their predicament. Instead of continuing to stigmatize them, he fought for their rehabilitation.
His tight collaboration with public servants, legislators, and non-governmental groups raised awareness of the Lodhas’ plight and promoted community-uplifting developmental initiatives.
Bhowmick’s campaigning helped change the way the police dealt with the Lodhas; instead of using punitive tactics, they now use social and economic initiatives to help them integrate into society at large.

Socio-Economic Rehabilitation:

In order to escape the cycle of poverty and marginalization, Bhowmick stressed the importance of providing the Lodha tribe with livelihood possibilities, education, and vocational training. He supported employment programs and land reforms that would give the tribe steady streams of revenue.
In addition, his efforts brought attention to the significance of cultural preservation by making sure that the tribe’s distinct cultural identity was upheld despite their socioeconomic difficulties.

Long-Term Impact:

While the stigma surrounding the Lodhas has not completely disappeared, P.K. Bhowmick’s contributions have had a lasting impact on the tribe’s decriminalization and gradual rehabilitation. His work brought attention to the structural inequalities faced by the tribe and paved the way for future interventions by the government and civil society.
His studies have also served as a blueprint for understanding and addressing the marginalization of other Denotified Tribes (DNTs) in India, who face similar challenges.

Conclusion

P.K. Bhowmick’s pioneering work in decriminalizing the status of the Lodha tribe is regarded as a significant contribution to anthropology and social justice. Through his advocacy, ethnographic research, and interactions with legislators, Bhowmick worked to raise awareness of the systemic injustices that the Lodhas had to deal with in order to advance their social and economic rehabilitation. Initiatives in India that promote inclusive development and enhance impoverished communities are still influenced by his legacy.