Denotified Tribes in India: History, Challenges, Current Scenario, and Government Initiatives
Introduction
Denotified Tribes (DNTs) are among the most marginalized communities in India. These communities were once labeled as “criminal tribes” by the British colonial government under the Criminal Tribes Act, 1871. After independence, the Act was repealed in 1952, and these communities were officially “denotified” (freed from the criminal label). However, despite legal freedom, many continue to face discrimination, poverty, social exclusion, and lack of access to government benefits.
What Are Denotified Tribes?
Denotified Tribes are communities that were listed under the British-era Criminal Tribes Act and were considered “hereditary criminals.” Entire families and generations were subjected to surveillance, restrictions on movement, and social stigma. After the repeal of the Act in 1952, these communities became known as Denotified Tribes.
Categories
India broadly recognizes three related groups:
- Denotified Tribes (DNTs) – Formerly listed under the Criminal Tribes Act.
- Nomadic Tribes (NTs) – Communities that migrate regularly for livelihood.
- Semi-Nomadic Tribes (SNTs) – Communities that move seasonally but maintain partial settlements.
Historical Background
Criminal Tribes Act, 1871
The British government introduced the Criminal Tribes Act in 1871, declaring certain communities “criminal by birth.” Members of these tribes had to register with authorities, report regularly to police, and faced severe restrictions on movement and employment.
Post-Independence Developments
- Criminal Tribes Act repealed in 1952.
- Communities were officially denotified.
- Many states later enacted Habitual Offenders Acts, which continued police surveillance and reinforced old prejudices.