THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Ranchi, Nov 17: Union Tribal Affairs Minister Arjun Munda has said that the earliest and most impactful resistance against the British emanated from the heart of the country’s forests among the resilient Janjatiya society, whose lives and livelihoods revolve around Jal, Jungle and Jameen as they are symbiotically in close relationship with nature.
“From the Pahadia movement spearheaded by Tilka Manjhi to the ‘Larka Andolan’ led by Budhu Bhagat, the Santhal Hul movement championed by Siddhu Murmu and Kanhu Murmu, the Naga movement steered by Rani Gaidinliu, the Rampaa movement ignited by Alluri Sitaram Raju, the rebellion of the Koya tribe, to the ‘Bhagat’ movement organised by Govind Guru— the Janjatiya community has left an indelible mark in the extensive tapestry of resistance against British rule,” he pointed out.
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The minister said that Birsa Munda, known as ‘Dharti Aaba,’ waged a formidable battle for his homeland, prompting the British to enact the Chhota Nagpur Tenancy-CNT Act. “This pivotal legislation safeguards ancestral forest rights under the banner of ‘Bhuihar Khunt,’ granting ownership rights to water, forests, and land,” he added.
Munda said that Bhagwan Birsa Munda wasn’t just a protector of the forest; he stood as a guardian of socio-cultural values, sacrificing himself alongside comrades in the fight against the British.
Similarly, in various corners of the nation, Janjatiya people displayed unwavering determination, steadfastly resisting British rule.
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He maintained that the Forest Rights Act, enacted by Parliament was a homage to Bhagwan Birsa Munda’s relentless struggle and acknowledgement of historical injustices in tribal regions.
He pointed out that safeguarding his self-governing community from external influences was central to Birsa Munda’s mission. “Hence, the introduction of laws like PESA becomes crucial to shield traditional systems from outside interference. PESA should align with these age-old systems, seamlessly integrating constitutional provisions,” he said.
The minister further said that the core concept is to institute a Panchayat system in Scheduled Areas, preserving cultural traditions and the natural order, all while maintaining harmony with nature.
“The Government of India’s Forest Rights Act (FRA) places a significant emphasis on restoration by intertwining it with social harmony. Instead of conferring exclusive rights to a particular group, the Forest Rights Act recognizes the entire human community as equal stakeholders. In the face of diverse challenges, addressing these issues with sensitivity is paramount. All Indians must ensure the preservation of the delicate interdependence of nature. This resonates with the distinctive philosophy of Bhagwan Birsa Munda,” he said.
Munda said that the Indian Constitution plays a crucial role in protecting the rights of Scheduled Tribes, ensuring their well-being, and fostering inclusivity.
“Acts such as the Forest Rights Act, PESA, and others have fortified the rights of Janjatiya communities, granting them the power to safeguard their unique way of life. Institutions like TRIFED and NSTFDC have provided vital support and opportunities, and enabled the economic advancement of Janjatiya communities while preserving their rich cultural heritage,” he signed off.
