Abstract

In this article I trace the events around a murder case in the regions inhabited by the Bhils in Southern Rajasthan. The case involves two of the most important political families in the region. The manner in which the case is addressed reveals how panchayats, or village councils that mediate “customary” practices of blood money negotiations, impact police and court practices and how disputes are addressed through interactions between tribal leaders, police officers, lawyers, and magistrates. The case also demonstrates how everyday legal practices make visible political affiliations, loyalties, and associations among tribal leaders, and reveal shifts that have taken place in the local formations of power and authority.