Ranchi:Adivasi Adhikar Manch, Jharkhand,
has welcomed the formation of the PESA (Panchayats Extension to Scheduled Areas) Rules by the Hemant Soren–led state government. The forum described the moveas an important step toward fulfilling the long-standing demands of the tribal
community and the people of Jharkhand.
State Convener Sukhnath Lohra said that although the decision has come late, it is a positive and necessary initiative. He stated that the implementation of the PESA Rules would strengthen self-governance in tribal areas and empower Gram Sabhas by enhancing their authority and role.
However, the forum emphasized that the vision of a “Gram Republic” will remain incomplete without amending the Jharkhand Panchayati Raj Act in accordance with PESA. Mere formulation of rules is not sufficient to implement the true spirit of PESA on the ground.
Adivasi Adhikar Manch has therefore urged the state government to immediately amend the Jharkhand Panchayati Raj Act in line with the PESA Rules, so that Gram Sabhas can exercise real and effective powers.
Additionally, the forum has demanded that the Central Government enact a strong central law for urban areas in Scheduled Regions, similar to PESA, so that self-governance in accordance with the Fifth Schedule can also be implemented in urban Scheduled Areas.
The forum believes that without constitutional self-governance in both rural and urban Scheduled Areas, the objectives of social justice and democratic participation will remain unfulfilled.
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