In the Indian context the term De-notified tribes refers to
A
tribes which are aboriginals
B
nomadic tribes
C
tribes practising shifting cultivation
D
tribes which were earlier classified as criminal tribes
Correct Answer: Option D
Explanation
1. The term 'De-notified tribes' (Vimukta Jati) in the Indian context refers to a specific historical and social category.
2. During British rule, the Criminal Tribes Act was enacted in 1871, which classified entire communities as 'Criminal Tribes', subjecting them to continuous surveillance and restrictions.
3. After India's independence, this Act was repealed in 1952, and these communities were 'de-notified'.
4. Therefore, De-notified tribes are those communities that were earlier classified as criminal tribes under the British regime. They are distinct from aboriginals (though many are indigenous), general nomadic tribes, or tribes solely defined by shifting cultivation.