Abstract

The Romani (or Roma) people constitute one of the most marginalised and stateless ethnic communities in the world today. Their population is dispersed across Europe, the Americas, and parts of Asia, with linguistic, genetic, and cultural evidence tracing their origins to the Indian subcontinent. This paper explores the historical, legal, and political struggle for a Roma identity and critically assesses the growing discourse surrounding their potential recognition as part of the Indian diaspora. Part I examines the evolution of Romani identity, including their persecution- from centuries of enslavement in Eastern Europe to the genocide during the Holocaust- and the continuing denial of basic rights through statelessness and legal invisibility. Part II analyzes the rise of Romani political consciousness through civil rights movements, claims for non-territorial nationhood, and efforts toward formal identity recognition under international law. It also evaluates proposals for granting EU citizenship as a remedy for statelessness while preserving Romani cultural identity. Part III considers India’s potential role in this discourse by examining past diplomatic gestures and the legal viability of incorporating the Romani within the existing diaspora framework. It interrogates the implications- both empowering and problematic- of such recognition in the current global landscape, including concerns such as political appropriation, cultural assimilation, and international diplomacy. This paper argues that while symbolic recognition could affirm cultural solidarity, formal diaspora inclusion raises complex legal, political, and identity-based challenges. The relationship between India and the Romani must be navigated with nuance, balancing historical connections with present-day realities. In doing so, the paper contributes to broader debates on statelessness, diaspora politics, and evolving concepts of nationhood in international law.

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