Ganba-Gansom: An Indigenous Justice Institution among the Tamang Community of Nepal

Abstract

This study examines Ganba-Gansom, an indigenous justice institution of long standing in the Tamang community that resolves disputes while maintaining social harmony and preserving customary knowledge. The study examines the structure, procedures, and contemporary relevance of Ganba-Gansom and explores its relationship with the Indigenous and Tribal Peoples Convention, 1989 (ILO Convention No. 169). Using qualitative interviews with 27 respondents across nine districts, the study finds that Ganba-Gansom remains a respected and trusted institution emphasizing reconciliation, dialogue, fairness, and community participation. Its practices show considerable similarity to the principles recognized in ILO Convention No. 169. The paper concludes that indigenous justice institutions can complement formal legal systems and support culturally appropriate access to justice while preserving Indigenous knowledge. This is consistent with the constitutional guarantee of equality before the law under Article 18(1) of the Constitution of Nepal.