This article investigates the identity struggles of de-notified, nomadic, and semi-nomadic communities in India, focusing on the anthropological dimensions of misrecognition. Historically stigmatized under colonial laws such as the Criminal Tribes Act, these communities continue to face social exclusion, discrimination, and denial of full citizenship rights despite formal de-notification. The study highlights how misrecognition manifests in bureaucratic hurdles, lack of access to welfare schemes, and persistent stereotypes that undermine their dignity and belonging. Through ethnographic inquiry, the paper situates these struggles within broader debates on identity, marginalization, and human rights, emphasizing the need for inclusive policies that acknowledge cultural diversity and historical injustices. By foregrounding the lived experiences of these communities, the article underscores the importance of anthropological perspectives in addressing structural inequities and fostering recognition in India’s democratic framework. India stands as a mosaic of diversity, its cultural heritage and intricate social fabric enhancing its complexity. Within this context, a distinct amalgamation of ethnic groups, each distinguished by culture, language, and traditions, finds its abode. However, this tapestry bears threads of fading identity and existential turmoil that intertwine with the De-notified, Nomadic, and Semi-nomadic communities. Hence, this research explores the critical factors surrounding the ethnic identity of these communities within India, simultaneously delving into the influence exerted by globalisation upon their livelihood practices and the anomalies in self-identity amid the diverse Indian milieu. The study is rooted in an investigation encompassing five communities: Dhara/Dhibar, Bansphor/Bansforda, Khurpalta, Muriari, and Savar. These communities are drawn from clusters in West Bengal, Jharkhand, Bihar, and Uttar Pradesh. Purposive and snowball sampling techniques were employed to identify and select the community members as participants, followed by the collection of data through numerous qualitative methods, including semi-structured interviews, observation, field notes, and focus group discussions. In addition, existing literature was undertaken to supplement existing knowledge through literary sources, governmental reports, and unpublished reports. The study’s findings illuminate how the erosion of traditional livelihood practices has propelled these communities to the verge of marginalisation, concurrently exacerbating the intricacies of their identity predicament in their daily life. Keywords: de-notified; nomadic; ethnic identity; Indian communities; marginalised groups; intersectionality; social inclusion; social justice; identity struggle; livelihood. Reproduced


https://www.researchgate.net/publication/383578498_MISRECOGNIZED_IDENTITIES_AN_ANTHROPOLOGICAL_INVESTIGATION_OF_THE_IDENTITY_STRUGGLE_OF_DE-NOTIFIED_NOMADIC_AND_SEMI-NOMADIC_COMMUNITIES_OF_INDIA