Emancipation and Identity Formation: The Puroik Experience in Arunachal Pradesh

Abstract

The Puroik tribe, also known as the Sulung tribe, inhabits the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh and has a complex history deeply intertwined with slavery and servitude. This paper explores their historical background, the dynamics of their enslavement, and the efforts made to emancipate them. It also delves into the broader context of slavery in Arunachal Pradesh, drawing insights from historical records and related literature on Indian slavery. The research covers the origins, practices, and governmental policies that eventually led to the liberation of the Puroik community from bonded labor. The paper examines the transformation of their relationship with their former masters and highlights the implications of these shifts for future policies and social dynamics. A multidisciplinary approach, incorporating anthropology, history, sociology, and indigenous studies, offers a comprehensive perspective on the unique experiences of the Puroik tribe.