Political Participation of Gaddi Tribe of Himachal Pradesh in State Politics

Abstract

This article is an ethnographic examination of the participation of Gaddis of Himachal Pradesh in state politics. Traditionally, they followed pastoral nomadism, but now the trend has changed. Gaddis today prefer government and private sector jobs. However, Gaddis were also trying to make a career in politics. Many had registered their names in state politics with their enthusiastic involvement. After Independence, only the Gaddis from the Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh were notified as Scheduled Tribes. But with their active involvement in politics, in 2002, Bharatiya Janata Party leaders from Dharamshala and Baijnath appealed for scheduled caste status to the rest of the Gaddis living in Himachal Pradesh who were classified under other backward classes. All the Gaddis from different areas were re-notified as Scheduled Tribes and given rights with regard to aid, education and jobs in January 2003. They had been facing discrimination among other communities due to their occupation and lifestyle but with the passage of time, Gaddis tried to maintain their identity among other communities by actively participating in politics and showing their presence to others. The aim of the study was to explore how the Gaddis were ensuring their political identity through their support of cultural identities and relation within and outside their tribe.