Ranchi, Aug 9: Flagging development as a danger for the tribal community, Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren said that tribals should be protected to protect the forest, the animals and the environment on World Tribal Day 2022 on Tuesday.
“Constitution does give rights for the protection of the tribals but the way development is going on it is a danger for the tribal community. People talk about protecting forests and animals but nobody talks about protecting tribals. Protect the tribals and you protect the entire environment,” Soren said inaugurating Jharkhand Janjati Mahotsav 2022.
The state government is celebrating the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples, popularly known as World Tribal Day, for the first time. Tribals from across the country and tribal experts from various countries are participating in the two-day event.
“It’s a historic day for the tribals, though, the day is being celebrated after 20 years since the formation of the state. Jharkhand should have started this much earlier on a priority. However, this will now be an annual event and it will only become grander. We urge the Government of India to declare this as a national holiday,” he said to a loud applause.
Soren said that the tribals need to work on improving their perception and respect in the eyes of the world. Tribals are shown as ‘asura’ (an evil person) among the idols of Hindu gods and goddesses, he said, adding that tribals neither have the numbers nor the money to destroy the forests. “This destruction is being done by the non-tribals.”
The Chief Minister along with his father, JMM President and Dishom Guru Shibu Soren was welcomed to the dais with loud drum beats of nagara, sounds of conch shell, bells, tribal music and dance. Announcements were made in Hindi, Santhali and Nagpuri.
“We need to protect our identity and generate respect among the people. We never beg and are never afraid to fight from the front. Our ancestors protected the forests and people are interested only in taking away our land. Our youths must be made aware of our history, leaders and high values, and promote our languages,” Soren said.
The event started with a tribute to tribal leaders of the past including Tilka Majhi, Birsa Munda and Sidhu and Kanhu Murmu. The event is showcasing different aspects of tribal life (song, dance, music, culture, food, and daily life) and will hold panel discussions.
While West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee, who could not attend the inaugural session, sent her message thanking the tribal community for their “overwhelming contribution to our society,” Chhattisgarh CM Bhupesh Baghel is likely to attend the closing ceremony tomorrow.
Leader of the Jharkhand movement and instrumental in the formation of the state, Shibu Soren said, “The day is being celebrated for the first time in the country. Development can only happen when there is social acceptance and respect for the tribals.
“I am happy to note that we have not left our languages. In fact, the languages have grown and scripts have been made ready and books are available. Development should happen for Santhalis and other tribes as well. All should happen within the laws.”
