Abstract: This article examines the complex intersection between customary laws and human rights in the context of the Tangkhul Naga tribe of Manipur, India. Drawing from field-based qualitative research, it analyses how traditional norms and practices, rooted in indigenous governance structures, interact with constitutional guarantees and international human rights frameworks. While customary law serves as a vital mechanism for preserving cultural identity, it can also generate tensions when interpreted in ways that restrict individual rights, particularly concerning gender equality, inheritance, and dispute resolution. The study situates these dynamics within broader debates on legal pluralism, minority rights, and cultural preservation, offering insights into the challenges of harmonising traditional governance with modern rights-based frameworks. The findings highlight the need for a balanced approach that respects indigenous legal traditions while safeguarding fundamental human rights.