The Lois of Manipur: A Socio-Historical Perspective from Sikhong and Nongpok Sekmai Villages

Abstract

This paper critically examines the historical, socio-cultural, and economic positioning of the Lois of Manipur, focusing on the villages of Sikhong and Nongpok Sekmai. Traditionally marginalised within the hierarchical Meitei society, the Lois negotiated identity, agency, and occupational specialisation while maintaining distinct cultural practices. Sikhong historically produced salt but no longer practises salt-making, whereas Ningel continues local salt production. Nongpok Sekmai is renowned for pottery, and Awang Sekmai engages in traditional wine production as part of the Sengmai community. Drawing on archival records, colonial ethnographies, oral traditions, and contemporary scholarship, this study argues that Scheduled Caste recognition among the Lois should be confined to surnames that fall within the fold of the seven Yek Salai clans—those historically displaced to foothill regions by Meitei kings. Surnames outside this genealogical framework cannot be considered Lois and should not be granted Scheduled Caste status. The findings highlight the resilience of the Lois and their strategic adaptation to socio-political constraints.