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The Politics of Custom: Blood Money, Disputes, and Tribal Leadership in Western India

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  01 January 2024

Devika Bordia*
Affiliation:
University of Göttingen, Germany
*
Devika Bordia, Unviersity of Göttingen, Waldweg 26, D-37073 Göttingen, Germany. Email: devikabordia@gmail.com

Abstract

In this article I trace the events around a murder case in the regions inhabited by the Bhils in Southern Rajasthan. The manner in which the case is addressed reveals the intersection between panchayat (village councils), police and court practices. The case also demonstrates how everyday legal practices make visible political affiliations, loyalties, and associations among tribal leaders, and reveals shifts that have taken place in the local formations of power and authority.

Type
Articles
Copyright
Copyright © ICPHS 2015

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