All India Newar Organisation demands schedule tribe status

In an effort to preserve the community’s cultural practices, the All India Newar Organisation (AINO) today held a community ‘Bael Vivah’ (marriage with the Bael fruit) here at Dharmoday Vihar.

Newari bel bibaha

Six minor girls were married off to the Bael fruit (Aegle Maraelos). Newari tradition mandates that minor girls of community must get married to the Bael fruit before they attain puberty. AINO secretary Yogbir Shakya informed that as per custom, girls between the age of five and 11 years are married to the Bael fruit as women who are married to the fruit are not considered as widows even if their husbands in life die.  Shakya stressed that such a practice proves the Newar community is tribal. The AINO secretary said the traditional practice of Bael Vivah and other unique customs of the community fulfill all the criteria for being granted ST status.

Citing another example, Shayka said: “The custom of marrying with fruit is also followed by a tribal community in Nagaland. Apart from that community, the Newar community is another that follows a similar custom. This is one of the key aspects defining tribal communities.”

Source:EOI

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