Telangana's Adivasi Gahod Bharat Celebrates International Adivasi Rights Day In Bhadradri Kothagudem

Bhadradri Kothagudem district in Bhadrachalam, Telangana hosted the International Adivasi Rights Day celebration, organised by Adivasi Gahod Bharat, spanning two days. The event gathered representatives from 20 states and various regions to deliberate extensively on future initiatives aimed at achieving tribal rights nationwide.

During the event, a spectacular Adivasi Cultural Sobhayatra took place in the town, featuring Adivasi leaders from across the nation adorned in their traditional attire as a part of the Telangana tradition. They joyfully danced to the rhythm of mela talas, infusing the town with vibrant energy. Additionally, the attending leaders emphasised the importance of tribal unity in their collective struggle for equitable rights.

The leaders shared that a significant historical moment occurred on August 9, 1982, when a meeting of working groups involving 26 independent human rights intellectuals convened in Geneva. This gathering addressed issues related to forest resource rights, drawing participation from representatives of 140 countries.

At this meeting, the committee urged the United Nations to designate a day for the recognition of tribal communities. Consequently, the day when the United Nations endorsed protective laws for indigenous peoples became known as International Tribal Day. However, the leaders expressed disappointment, asserting that the Central and State Governments have not adequately fulfilled their responsibilities, leaving indigenous communities without the government support and schemes they rightfully deserve.

Their demands included the effective implementation of the Protection Act, PESA, and Forest Rights Act, as they view these as rightful requests. They stressed the importance of preserving the language, culture, and traditions of tribal communities, emphasizing that land acquisition should only occur with the consent of the people and Gram Sabhas, as specified in the Panchayat Raj Extension to Scheduled Areas (PESA) 1996 and the Forest Right Act (FRA) 2006. They also called for fair compensation, transparency in land acquisition processes, and proper resettlement.

Additionally, they strongly advocated for the immediate release of all innocent tribal individuals who are currently incarcerated on various charges and demanded the swift withdrawal of charges against them.