Tribal Ministry urged to delete ‘Any Kuki Tribes’ category from Manipur’s ST list

IN NEWS: Tribal Ministry urged to delete ‘Any Kuki Tribes’ category from Manipur’s ST list

Analysis

1. Background of the Issue:
   • Two Manipur-based organisations — Thadou Inpi Manipur and Meitei Alliance — have urged the Ministry of Tribal Affairs to delete the “Any Kuki Tribes (AKT)” category from the State’s Scheduled Tribes (ST) list.
   • They claim the category’s vague nature allows foreigners to claim tribal rights, thereby threatening land, resources, and privileges of existing Scheduled Tribes.
2. Government’s Previous Position:
   • The Government of Manipur, through cabinet decisions on October 19, 2018, and January 2, 2023, had formally recommended deletion of the “Any Kuki Tribes” category.
   • This aligns with the current memorandum submitted by the two organisations.
3. Concerns Highlighted by Organisations:
   • The AKT category allegedly lacks distinct language, culture, or geographical isolation, which are basic criteria for recognition as Scheduled Tribe under Article 342 of the Indian Constitution.
   • The inclusion of AKT in 2003 is alleged to have been carried out through non-transparent and politically motivated means.
4. Impact on Ethnic Relations:
   • According to the memorandum, the AKT category has exacerbated ethnic tensions and undermined social harmony in Manipur.
   • It is claimed that no recognised Scheduled Tribe in the State accepts or recognises the AKT category.
5. Constitutional Reference:
   • Article 342 of the Constitution empowers the President of India, after consultation with the Governor of a State, to specify tribes or tribal communities to be included in the list of Scheduled Tribes.
   • Any subsequent inclusion or exclusion from this list requires Parliamentary approval.

Static Part (For UPSC Context)

• Scheduled Tribes (STs):
  Communities recognized under Article 342 of the Constitution as socially and economically disadvantaged, requiring affirmative action.
• Criteria for Inclusion:
  1. Primitive traits
  2. Distinctive culture
  3. Geographical isolation
  4. Shyness of contact with the community at large
  5. Backwardness
• Authority for Modification:
  Parliament has the power to make changes to the ST list under Article 342(2).

Updated – 24 June 2025 ; 02:11 PM | The Hindu

Source:The Hindu