Why in News?
On March 12, 2026, the Ministry of Tribal Affairs informed Parliament that a proposal to include the Gangota community in the ST list is under review.
Key Features
- Geographic Distribution: They are primarily concentrated along the riverbanks of the Ganges in Bihar, specifically in the Bhagalpur, Purnia, and Madhepura districts.
- Social & Legal Status:
- Bihar: Categorised as an Extremely Backward Class (EBC).
- Central List: Currently listed under the Other Backward Classes (OBC) category.
- Pending Demand: There is a long-standing demand for their inclusion in the Scheduled Tribes (ST) list to secure greater constitutional benefits.
- Occupation: Historically a community of marginalised farmers, landless labourers, and fishermen (Bataidars). Their name is believed to be derived from the river Ganga, as they traditionally reside in flood-prone "Diara" (riverbed) lands.
- Demographics: According to the 2022 Bihar Caste-Based Survey, their population is 6,48,493.
- Political Clout: They play a decisive role in electing candidates in constituencies such as Kahalgaon, Bihpur, Gopalpur, Nathnagar, Rupauli, Alamnagar, and Bihariganj. In some areas like Nathnagar, they are estimated to comprise up to 70% of the local population.
- Socio-Cultural Identity: They claim descent from Sage Jahnu. Traditional customs include Sindoordan as the binding part of marriage and the practice of widow remarriage, specifically to the late husband's younger brother.
Download Pdf
