Published Paper Details:

For women from Scheduled Tribes (STs), in particular, land ownership and succession are essential to economic stability, social standing, and empowerment. The inheritance rights of ST women in Sikkim are influenced by a complicated interplay between deeply ingrained patriarchal societal norms, customary tribal laws, and statutory provisions. Women's rights to inherit property are legally recognised by legal frameworks like the Sikkim Succession Act, 2008, however their real exercise is still restricted. Male heirs are frequently given preference in customs, but limitations pertaining to marriage, tribal identification, and documentation further marginalise women. Through a survey of the literature, legal analysis, and sociocultural viewpoints, this paper critically investigates the inheritance rights and land ownership position of ST women in Sikkim. In order to guarantee significant land rights for ST women, it draws attention to the discrepancy between law and practice and makes the need for increased awareness, enforcement, and gender-sensitive reforms.