ABSTRACT
This chapter presents the core findings of a larger study, which was ongoing at the time, into the continuance of tribal customary systems. The detailed surveys of the members of 14 tribes across the northeastern region point to a clutch of reasons as to why the traditional systems continue to function and remain popular among the majority of tribes. These reasons include their accessibility and speedy non-punitive judgements that help maintain the culture and cohesiveness of the tribe. Among the minority of tribes where the traditional conflict resolution systems are not as popular, the study reveals that the reasons vary among different tribes. A minority, especially among the more literate and urbanised, felt that customary law was not in tune with present needs, and not sensitive to women’s interests. Overall, the study shows that conflict resolution systems could continue to flourish if they can adapt to the contemporary situation.
