Manki-Munda System: Protests occurred in Jharkhand’s Kolhan area

What is it?

A traditional, decentralized self-governance system practiced by the Ho community in Jharkhand’s Kolhan area.

It centers on village leaders (Mundas) and pidh leaders (Mankis) who collaboratively settle conflicts and uphold harmony.

Origin & Background:

Pre-British period: Operated as a community-led governance framework without the idea of land taxation or foreign sovereign authority.

Recognition of the British Era:

Following the initial Ho and Kol uprisings, the British understood that direct governance was not feasible.

In 1833, Captain Thomas Wilkinson formalized the system in 31 regulations (Wilkinson’s Rules), which were subsequently applied in the Kolhan Government Estate (KGE) in 1837.

Mankis and Mundas served as intermediaries between the colonial administration and the community, linking Kolhan to British India while maintaining autonomy.

How Does It Function?

Munda: Leader of an individual village, settles local socio-political conflicts.

Manki: Leader of a pidh (group of 8–15 villages), addresses appeals when Munda-level solutions do not succeed.

The system is based on customary law rather than formal legislation and remains in effect even post-Independence.

Main Attributes:

Inherited Leadership: Positions are transmitted from parent to child.

Decentralized & Community-oriented: Participation in dispute resolution akin to Gram Sabha.

Cultural Autonomy: Safeguards Ho identity, customs, and land entitlements.

Legal Continuity: Despite facing challenges, courts have permitted Wilkinson’s Rules to persist because of the absence of alternatives.