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Introducing the issue of JanajatisOne of the major demands of the jana andolan in 2006 was for "inclusion". Among the groups that have been demanding inclusion have been the various ethnic groups, known in Nepal as Janajatis. Sometimes a distinction is drawn between Janajatis and Adivasis who are indigenous groups, but the word Janajati as used in Nepal is generally used to refer to indigenous communities (or even "Adivasi Janajati"). On this website the word Janajati will be used, except when referring to some other document or website etc that uses another expression. In this section of this website we look at the possible constitutional provisions for minority groups (which would include ethnic groups) and specifically for indigenous groups. Who are the Janatis? In the 2001 census the following janajati groups were listed as having more than 1% of the total population of Nepal:
A very large number of other groups were listed, down to the smallest group - the Raute with 658 people.
What are the issues about Janajatis? There is no doubt that many Janajati groups have been discriminated against over the centuries. Under the Muluki Ain, the national code of law drafted in the mid-nineteenth century, the various Janajati groups were fitted into the Hindu Caste system: below the Bahuns and the Chettris and above the Dalits. For this reason in Nepal people often use the word "caste" to embrace both caste and tribe. The situation of groups varies very much. The Newars have been quite well represented in government for example. In fact sometimes Newars have objected to being included in the general category of Janajatis.
Political developments involving Janajatis During 2007 there were various bandhas and disruptions from various groups including Janajatis. This is not the place to go into these (the media websites have information). Eventually there were talks with the government and a 20 point agreement was signed.
On this website you can find some information about the following topics: What did the 1990 Constitution say about janjatis? What does the Interim Constitution say? What does international law say about the right of indigenous peoples? What do other constitutions say about the rights of groups of people who could be considered to be similar to janajatis in Nepal? Links to other reading and websites that might be useful. |
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