Exploring Marginalization & Identity Dynamics Of The Santhal Community

Abstract

The study of small communities within regional settings has gained significant importance in contemporary society. One such community is the Santhal tribe, officially recognized by the Government of India, residing in the Chotanagpur plateau across states like Orissa, Bihar, West Bengal, and Assam with slight variations in pronunciation such as Santal, Santhal, and Saontal. This community, due to historical and socio-economic challenges both internal and external in nature, experienced significant marginalization’s, leading to their migration to various regions of the state during the British colonial period. Many Santhal settled in the Lakhimpur District during this time. However, unlike in other states and regions where they are recognized as tribal communities, in Lakhimpur District, they are classified as Other Backward Class (OBC). This paper aims to explore the factors that led to their marginalization from own tribal identity, and why they are enlisted as OBC in this particular region.