IMPACT OF PATRIARCHAL CUSTOMS ON WOMENS LAND OWNERSHIP AMONG GALO TRIBE IN WEST SIANG DISTRICT OF ARUNACHAL PRADESH

This study explored how patriarchal customs influence womens land ownership and inheritance among the Galo tribe in West Siang, Arunachal Pradesh. Land in Galo society is more than just an economic asset; it represents lineage, identity, and belonging. Yet, the prevailing patrilineal inheritance and patrilocal residence systems place land rights squarely in male hands, effectively excluding daughters from inheritance.Using a mixed-method approach, data from around 150 adult respondents and interviews with women, elders, and leaders revealed that none of the women inherited ancestral land. Only a small portion (2%) received land as parental gifts, typically newly acquired land rather than ancestral property, while the overwhelming majority (98%) purchased land themselves. This shows not only how customary norms exclude women but also how determined women are to secure economic independence despite systemic barriers.Decision-making remains dominated by male elders in the customary village council (keba), reinforcing the exclusion of women. Although legal provisions exist to guarantee equal inheritance rights, these rights remain mostly theoretical, overshadowed by the prevailing customary system.The women interviewed expressed a range of emotions from acceptance to frustration, hope, and agency.