Munda calls for urgent review of PESA implementation

Indian Tribal News Service

New Delhi : Union Tribal Affairs Minister Arjun Munda on Thursday said there is an urgent need to closely review the implementation of the Provisions of the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act (PESA) to ensure self-governance in scheduled areas through traditional gram sabhas.

Inaugurating the national conference on PESA, along with Union Minister for Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Giriraj Singh, Munda said it was the “first time in 25 years” that the two ministries were holding a joint meeting on the implementation of the Act in tribal-dominated states.

Laad packed in turmeric leaf for roasting

“When the whole country is celebrating Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav, there is an urgent need to closely review the implementation of PESA on completion of its 25 years to ensure basic rights of tribals,” Munda outlined adding “There should be clarity among officials on how to implement the Act. First, officials of the two ministries involved in the implementation of the Act need to be trained. Many issues will emerge during the discussion over it.”

The Government officials at the conference admitted that there was a lack of awareness among the tribal communities and also the implementing officials about PESA.

Munda said PESA seeks to protect the principle of “Jal, Jungle, Jameen (water, forest and land)” for tribals and is the basis of Atmanirbhar Bharat. It is, therefore, imperative to strengthen and empower gram sabhas under PESA. But whatever system is evolved, it has to be in consultation with tribals, he said.

He emphasised the need for involving civil society and NGOs working for welfare of tribals to ensure better implementation of PESA saying, “They are better-versed with the ground reality.” He also called for a joint conference of officials of the forest department, panchayati raj and tribal affairs for better coordination in implementation of PESA and the Forest Rights Act.

Update

7 Kuki-Zo camps to be relocated to tribal areas

The Union Home Ministry and Manipur’s Kuki-Zo insurgent groups have reached an understanding to relocate seven camps from near Meitei-dominated areas. The decision follows a second round of talks on Monday under the 2008 Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement. “It has been agreed in principle that any relocated camps should be in tribal areas. The locations of the new camps in tribal areas will be discussed at a third meeting to be scheduled,” an official said. While Meiteis have opposed the pact blaming armed Kuki militants for involvement in the protracted strife, Kukis have accused Meitei groups, including Arambai Tenggol, of stoking the violence.