Every year on August 31, many Denotified and Nomadic Tribes across India observe Vimukti Diwas—a day they call their second Independence Day. This marks the date when, in 1952, these Denotified Communities were officially released from the harsh Criminal Tribes Act imposed by the British. But even after 68 years, their real freedom is still a distant dream.
A Dark Colonial Legacy
Back in 1871, the British government passed a law that labeled many tribes as “criminals by birth”. Under this Act, entire communities were branded as criminals without any proof or individual trial. The British likely did this to prevent these mobile and independent tribes from organizing resistance like the one seen in the 1857 revolt. These tribes were confined to specific areas and kept under constant surveillance.
Although this law was removed in 1952, the stigma of being “criminal tribes” still follows these communities to this day.
The Struggle After De-notification
After India gained independence, the Criminal Tribes Act was repealed, and the communities were officially “de-notified.” But instead of receiving support to rebuild their lives, these tribes were left without a proper place in the country’s legal or social structure.
A large number of Denotified Tribes (DNTs) are excluded from the categories of Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), or Other Backward Classes (OBC). This means they are excluded from government welfare schemes, including education, job reservations, housing, and healthcare.
Due to this lack of recognition, most of them still live without permanent homes, basic facilities, or secure jobs. They continue to face deep social discrimination and are often seen as untrustworthy or criminal, just because of their community’s history under British law.
False Promises, No Progress
In 2003, the government formed a National Commission for DNTs to study their conditions and suggest reforms. But not much has changed since then. While leaders have made promises to identify and help these groups, their lives remain stuck in poverty and neglect.
Even today, people from DNT communities are displaced and discriminated against by society and authorities. The label of “criminal” still follows them, even though the law that created it was scrapped decades ago.
A Call for True Freedom
Vimukti Diwas, celebrated on August 31, is more than a symbolic day. It is a reminder of unfinished justice. While India celebrates its freedom on August 15, for Denotified Tribes, real freedom has yet to arrive.
To end this injustice, the government must recognize these communities properly. Without access to education, jobs, healthcare, and housing, they cannot escape the shadow of the past.
India cannot call itself truly free until all its people, including the most marginalized, are treated with dignity and equality.
