New Activism for Political Recognition

Abstract

This article seeks to understand the emergence of new activism among tribal (adivasi) women in Odisha2, India, and study whether it leads to the creation of new political spaces for them. New activism is defined as a multiscalar quest for better rights, and takes the form of collective resistance and mobilization. On the basis of the fieldwork and secondary information about the tribals’ situation in selected districts of Odisha, it was found that the present mining-based industries have led to forced displacement, increasing poverty and erosion of resources and rights among poor, adivasi women and men. In this context, tribal women’s collective action has emerged as a strong force against these problems in their habitats. We focus particularly on two issues of concern—liberalization of mining and the liquor trade—which have significantly restructured the state apparatus and eroded the constitutional rights and status of tribal communities. Under this new regime of power, tribal women have scaled up their resistance by allying with other activist groups. They have not only transformed their worldview but have also become more professional and strategic in their action, thereby gaining voice and visibility, and creating a new political space for themselves. The new activism has given tribal women political recognition among different actors at different scales, which can no longer be ignored by the ruling class in the country.