Kebang (Traditional Village Court) - A local customary judicial body in Arunachal Pradesh, functioning as a village-level dispute resolution forum recognized under traditional and statutory frameworks, including the AFR, 1945, and the Arunachal Pradesh Civil Courts Act, 2021. It primarily handles civil disputes within indigenous communities and is regarded as an authoritative decision-making body at the village level ["Soleng Kri S/o Lt Talilum Kri VS State of AP - Gauhati"].
Legal Status and Jurisdiction - The Kebang's decisions are considered conclusive at the village level, with reports and judgments from Kebang meetings serving as authoritative conclusions on disputes, such as land claims or community conflicts. However, statutory provisions like Section 17(1) of the Arunachal Pradesh Civil Courts Act, 2021, restrict the jurisdiction of civil courts and government authorities over disputes already settled by Kebang, emphasizing the primacy of customary law ["Soleng Kri S/o Lt Talilum Kri VS State of AP - Gauhati"], ["Bimal Ratan VS State of Arunachal Pradesh - Gauhati"].
Role in Dispute Resolution - The Kebang acts as a first-level adjudicatory body for indigenous disputes, especially those concerning land, community rights, and local governance. Its decisions are subject to appeals under the statutory provisions, with appellate courts such as the Additional District Judge or Civil Courts exercising jurisdiction over Kebang decisions, especially when procedural or legal questions arise ["Nyato Dabu Mengnia VS Gyodik Pute Tikli - Gauhati"].
Limitations and Legal Interplay - While Kebang decisions are significant, their authority is bounded by state law. The Arunachal Pradesh Civil Courts Act, 2021, and amendments restrict government officials like Deputy Commissioners from deciding disputes within Kebang jurisdiction, emphasizing that such matters fall under customary courts unless statutory exceptions apply. The Act also clarifies that disputes involving indigenous parties within the jurisdiction are to be tried by village authorities, reinforcing traditional dispute resolution mechanisms ["Lhakpa Kigar S/o Late Karma Lera Kigar VS State of Arunachal Pradesh - Gauhati"], ["Kirri Dini Bogum S/o Late Takir Dini VS Jamar Karlo S/o Late Taja Karlo - Gauhati"].
Insights - The Kebang exemplifies the integration of customary law within the formal legal system of Arunachal Pradesh. It functions as an essential institution for preserving indigenous dispute resolution practices, with statutory backing that affirms its authority at the village level. Nonetheless, the legal framework delineates clear boundaries to prevent overlaps with formal courts, ensuring a harmonious coexistence of customary and statutory justice systems ["Tago Kochung, S/o. Late Lingdung Kochung VS Bojen Kochung, S/o. Late Lera Kochung - Gauhati"].
Analysis and Conclusion:A Kebang in Arunachal Pradesh is a traditional village council that plays a vital role in resolving civil disputes within indigenous communities. Its decisions are recognized as authoritative at the local level, especially concerning land and community issues. The Arunachal Pradesh Civil Courts Act, 2021, and related laws reinforce the Kebang's jurisdiction, limiting interference from government authorities and formal courts. This dual system underscores Arunachal Pradesh's effort to preserve customary justice while integrating it within the broader legal framework.
