Beyond the Veil of Numbers: Understanding the Social Reality of SC and ST Women in Bakalir Chhara Enclave

Paschim Bakalir Chhara (enclave) was one of the 51 Bangladeshi chhits /chits (enclaves) in India geographically located in Dinhata Sub-division, Cooch Behar district prior to the ratification of the India-Bangladesh Land Boundary Agreement (LBA) in 2015. This article examines the social status of SC and ST women in Paschim Bakalir Chhara, tracing its demographic characteristics, and the challenges faced by its concerned Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) women residents under a stateless existence and after enclave exchangein 2015. It also highlights the impact of the 2015 enclave exchange on the social condition after this enclave became an integral part of the Indian state.