The Federation of Indigenous Women of Nepal in America (FIWNA) successfully hosted its 4th Virtual Interaction Session on the topic: “Nhang-khor: Customary Self-Governance Systems of the Tamang Nation.”
RK Tamang, an Indigenous academic activist, delivered an insightful presentation that delved into the historical governance systems of the Tamang Nation. He emphasized how these systems were disrupted following the rise of the Gorkha regime. Tamang highlighted how derogatory terms like “Gaiko masu khane,” “Matuwali,” and “Bhote” were used to undermine Indigenous identity and customs. He also shared that the Tamang Nation—historically known as Tamsaling—is one of the five largest ethnic groups in Nepal.
Tamang explained the structure of the Tamang customary system, which included distinct branches of governance: legislative, judicial, and executive. These systems governed communities with principles of justice and accountability. One core community saying he cited was: “Break heads but don’t break stomachs,” referring to the importance of upholding justice without depriving people of their basic survival.
He also critiqued the challenges Indigenous governance systems face today, attributing their marginalization to external ideologies such as Brahmanism, communism, economic trends, and unprincipled eclecticism—which, he argued, fail to distinguish between immediate demands and the long-term goals of Indigenous movements.
The session featured a vibrant discussion among participants from various backgrounds, including students, researchers, journalists, and advocates.
Advocate Durga Mani Yamphu suggested that learning from historical rulers could help improve strategy and cautioned against harshly worded accusations, which may sometimes worsen situations.
Kalpana Bhattachan, Vice President of the National Indigenous Women Federation (NIWF), raised a critical question about why many Indigenous nationalities in Nepal struggle to sustain their self-governance systems. She asked how Indigenous communities could realistically implement customary law today.
Tulabahadur Tamang, President of the Tamang Society of America, inquired about the scripts historically used in Tamang governance.
Presenter RK Tamang addressed these concerns thoughtfully and welcomed the feedback and suggestions offered by participants.
One of the event’s highlights was commentary from Professor Dr. Krishna Bhattachan, a prominent Indigenous scholar. He emphasized that many perspectives still operate within a colonized mindset and need decolonization. He encouraged the presenter to focus on documentation, allowing communities to determine how to use such records to build law. He referenced African Indigenous Peoples, noting that they never ceded their land to colonial rulers, and asserted that the same principle applies to Indigenous Peoples in Nepal.
Citing ILO Convention 169, Dr. Bhattachan underscored the importance of free, prior, and informed consent—pointing out that it has often been misused as “forced prior consent.” He argued that governments must acknowledge and apologize for violations of Indigenous rights. He also urged both presenters and participants to recognize and overcome colonial mentalities still embedded in their approaches.
The event was moderated by Indira Chongbang, President of FIWNA, who warmly welcomed participants and extended sincere thanks to the presenter for his contributions. She reaffirmed FIWNA’s commitment to continuing this series to raise awareness about Indigenous rights, cultural heritage, and self-determination systems.
