Manki-Munda
Why in news?
Recently, there have been protests and rallies by the Ho tribe community in Jharkhand against alleged administrative interference and attempts to reform or interfere with this traditional governance system.
About Manki-Munda
- The Manki-Munda system is a centuries-old traditional self-governance framework of the Ho tribal community in Jharkhand’s Kolhan region.
- Traditional Governance: It's a centuries-old, decentralized system of administration and justice.
Hierarchical Structure:
- Munda: The head of a single village. The Munda is responsible for resolving socio-political disputes at the local level. This is a hereditary position.
- Manki: The head of a "pir," which is a cluster of 8 to 15 villages. The Manki handles cases that cannot be resolved by the Munda. This is also a hereditary post.
Role in Community:
- The system is based on customary laws and plays a crucial role in maintaining social order, protecting cultural identity, and managing local affairs.
- Historically, before British rule, the system was purely for internal governance and did not involve revenue collection or land taxation.
British Influence:
- After early revolts by the Ho and Kol tribes, the British codified the Manki-Munda system in 1837 with the "Wilkinson's Rules."
- This British intervention integrated the Mankis and Mundas into the colonial administration, making them intermediaries for collecting revenue and reporting to the British authorities.
Post-Independence:
- The system has largely continued to operate in the Kolhan region, with courts often recognizing it as a valid form of customary practice.
- However, its relevance has been challenged by the modern Panchayati Raj system and by a younger generation that sometimes calls for reforms to the hereditary nature of the posts.
Recent tensions have risen because of vacant leadership posts, complaints about some Mundas not performing their duties, and demands for reforms to allow more educated and competent leadership instead of purely hereditary appointments.
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