Ranchi(Khunti) — Aiming to legally recognize traditional tribal self-governance systems and to demand the full implementation of the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996 (PESA), the "Traditional Tribal Community Grand Assembly" was held on Saturday at the DRDA auditorium in the Khunti district headquarters.
Tribal representatives from various districts including Khunti, Ranchi, Gumla, Lohardaga, Seraikela, Jamshedpur and others participated in large numbers, along with traditional leaders such as Padha Kings Munda, Manki Doklo, Sohor, and other indigenous office-bearers.
The primary objective of the Mahasabha was to strategize the empowerment of traditional tribal governance under constitutional rights, especially through strengthening Gram Sabhas under the provisions of the PESA Act.
PESA Act: Rights and Government Neglect
The PESA Act, enacted in 1996, aims to empower Gram Sabhas in Scheduled Areas with control over natural resources like land, water, forests, and minerals. It also gives Gram Sabhas the authority to approve plans, settle local disputes, and preserve traditional customs.
The Jharkhand High Court recently ordered the state government to implement tribal traditional systems under PESA by September 6, 2025. However, during the Mahasabha, speakers alleged that the government continues to show a lackadaisical attitude toward this mandate.
Jaleshwar Oraon, a tribal leader from Lohardaga, stated:“Even after nearly three decades of the PESA Act being passed, and a set of rules already being drafted, the government has failed to implement it in Jharkhand due to its indifferent attitude and external interference.”
Warning from Tribal Representatives
Numerous traditional leaders—Padha Kings, Munda-Manki, and tribal intellectuals—unanimously voiced concern, warning that if the government does not act promptly, mass mobilization and protest would be the next step.
Masih Gudiya, Chairperson of Khunti Zila Parishad, emphasized:“Tribal communities are now aware of their rights. We are united to protect our traditions, culture, and governance systems. Continued delays in implementing PESA will no longer be tolerated.”
Mahadev Munda, President of the Traditional Tribal Mahasabha, said:“This is not just a meeting—it is a decisive step to protect the identity and rights of tribal society.”
Women's Leadership and Drafting of Rules
Nisha Oraon, the patron of the Mahasabha and former Director of Panchayati Raj in the state government, highlighted her contribution:“While serving in the government, I had drafted the rules and regulations for implementing the PESA Act. But unfortunately, the government has failed to act on it. Today, we must ensure that Gram Sabhas are given constitutional authority to make decisions for local development based on their traditions and needs.”
Key Traditional Leaders in Attendance
Prominent participants in the event included:Soma Munda (Sanga Padha King)
Kisto Munda (52 Padha King, Sripargana)
Mangal Singh Munda (Tiru Pargana King)
Jagarnath Singh Munda (Village Head, Manki)
Vijay Kujur (Vice President, Lohardaga Unit)
Birsa Oraon, Fauda Oraon, King Dawood Mundu, Net Munda, and Peter Barla, among others.The program was skillfully conducted by Amar Babu of Khunti.
The Time for Action Is Now
The Mahasabha made it clear that the tribal community will no longer wait passively. If the government does not implement the PESA Act immediately, tribal representatives will resort to protests and direct action. This is not merely a legal issue—it is now a matter of tribal dignity, identity, and constitutional justice.
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