Ranchi: On the occasion of World Tribal Day, an open discussion on the “Protection, Promotion and Expansion of Adivasi Identity” was organised at Bagaicha in Namkum, Ranchi. Representatives of various districts and tribal and social organisations participated in the programme, which was organised as part of a joint campaign by several organisations.
The discussion focused on issues concerning Adivasi identity, religious freedom, cultural rights and the protection of water, forests and land.
Sukhnath Lohra outlined the background of the campaign and said that a statewide campaign had been underway for the past six months against what he described as ideological attacks on Adivasi identity. Research scholar Akriti Lakra said that continued attacks on Adivasi identity had left many tribal youths struggling with questions concerning their identity.
Poet Jasinta Kerketta alleged that the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and the Brahminical social order were mounting an organised ideological challenge to Adivasi identity. She alleged that organisations associated with the RSS were attempting to undermine the independent identity of Adivasis.
Speakers also criticised the slogan “Sarna-Sanatan Ek” (Sarna and Sanatan are one), arguing that such a narrative could weaken the distinct religious and cultural identity of Adivasi communities.
Former minister and social activist Geetashree Oraon said that the independent religious system of Adivasis had not yet received formal recognition through a separate code in the Census. She reiterated the demand for recognition of the Sarna religious identity.
Social activist Dayamani Barla said that water, forests and land formed the foundation of Adivasi identity. She alleged that the exploitation of natural resources was posing a serious threat to the existence and livelihood of tribal communities.
Research scholar Jaikishan Godsohra stressed the need to protect Adivasi cultural and religious sites. Genzi Sunita Boipai raised concerns over the inadequate representation of Adivasi history in educational curricula.
At the conclusion of the programme, participants decided to organise discussions at the village level across different districts and use digital platforms to reach out to more young people.
The programme was conducted by Dinesh Murmu and Elina Horo. Former judge Ratnakar Bhengra, Praful Linda, Sanjay Mahli, Tom Kawla, Jayan Drez, Praveer Peter and Bilkan Dang were among those who addressed the gathering.
The programme was organised under a joint campaign involving Jharkhand Janadhikar Mahasabha, Adivasi Adhikar Manch, Adivasi Sangharsh Morcha, Johar, Munda Sabha, Gaon Ganrajya Parishad, Visthapit Mukti Vahini, Adivasi Moolvasi Adhikar Manch and Adivasi Samanvay Samiti, among other organisations.
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