Question

What were the main arguments on either side of the debate about how to relate to tribal communities?

Answer 1

The British believed that the people of Indian tribes were simple and their culture was different than that of the Hindus.

Explanation:

• They need to be protected by the state so as to safeguard their interests.
• On the other hand, the nationalists argued that The tribes of India were not backward but had always been interacting with the rest of Hindu society over a long period of time.
• All other communities had experienced the process of assimilation except Indian tribes.
• The reason behind the backwardness of Tribes was the attempt to preserve tribal culture.