A Legal Study on the Conservation of the Bell-brass Metal Industry of Rural Assam with Reference to the Problems Faced by the Artisans

Abstract

A good number of rural communities in Assam possess mastery over some traditional art and craft which are very unique and are their means of subsistence. The Bell-Brass Metal industry in Assam is known since 7th century A.D. But, with the advancement of science and technology, the rights of the indigenous peoples are in the verge of disappearance. Many unscrupulous groups are trying to personalize the traditional knowledge of these indigenous peoples without giving them any recognition or financial benefit. To preserve the rights of the indigenous peoples over their crafts the Geographical Indications are available under the existing Intellectual Property Rights Regime. But, the rural craftsmen in Assam are not so aware and friendly with the laws or the legal system. Therefore, their rights are easily snatched away by many unscrupulous persons. The traditional knowledge of the indigenous peoples are the assets upon which the identity of their community depends. They have exclusive right to use these knowledge for themselves. The indigenous peoples of Assam face problems regarding protection of their traditional knowledge over Bell-Brass metal goods. The researcher made a survey in the Sarthebari, Baniakuchi and Hajo area of Kamrup which are homes to bell-brass metal good producers. Through this paper, the researcher wants to focus on the identity crisis of the indigenous peoples due to the non-recognition of their rights over their traditional crafts with special focus on the problems in Bell-Brass metal production and their conservation in Assam.