International Journal of History

The Noctes constitute one of the major tribal communities of Arunachal Pradesh, predominantly inhabiting the Tirap district. Historically, their socio-political life was deeply influenced by frequent inter-village warfare, which shaped institutions such as chieftainship, village councils, and dormitory systems. This paper examines the socio-political status of the Noctes during the period of warfare, with special emphasis on the role of chieftainship, the institution of pang (dormitory), and the cultural practices associated with conflict. The main objective of the study is to understand how warfare influenced political authority, social organization, and ritual life among the Noctes, and to analyze the causes and consequences of inter-village conflicts.
The study is qualitative in nature and is based on both primary and secondary sources. Primary data were collected through interviews with members of the Nocte community, including elders and knowledgeable informants, while secondary data were drawn from books, journals, and ethnographic records. The research area comprises the Tirap district of Arunachal Pradesh, with the focus restricted to Nocte-inhabited villages.
The findings reveal that inter-village warfare was a common phenomenon caused by disputes over land, water resources, salt wells, theft, assault, and injury. Warfare reinforced political authority at the village level, strengthening the institution of chieftainship and the village council, while preventing political unity at the tribal level. Chiefs played a decisive role in warfare-related matters, including decision-making, alliances, and the collection of tribute. Socially, warfare elevated the status of warriors, institutionalized rituals such as headhunting ceremonies, tattooing, war dances, and songs, and defined gender roles within the community.
The study concludes that warfare significantly shaped the traditional socio-political structure of the Noctes. Although warfare has ceased with the establishment of Indian administration, its legacy continues to influence Nocte political institutions, social customs, and cultural identity in the contemporary period.