Punjab E News (New Delhi): On the occasion of World Tribal Day, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal extended greetings to tribal communities across India and raised concerns over their rights to water, forests and land.
In a video message, Kejriwal claimed that the tribal community has faced significant injustice during the 75 years since Independence. He said that while India and several communities progressed, tribal communities continued to face challenges related to development, resources and their traditional rights.
Kejriwal alleged that tribal resources, including Jal, Jungle and Zameen, were taken away from communities and transferred to large corporations. He also claimed that AAP is working to raise issues concerning tribal rights and representation.
Kejriwal Raises Chaitar Vasava Issue
The AAP leader also spoke about tribal leader Chaitar Vasava, who he said is currently in jail. Kejriwal claimed that Vasava has consistently raised his voice for the rights of the tribal community.
Kejriwal expressed hope that Vasava would be released soon and appealed to people to pray for his early release.
PESA Act Implementation Questioned
Kejriwal also raised questions over the implementation of the PESA Act (Panchayats Extension to Scheduled Areas Act). He alleged that despite the existence of the law, its provisions have not been implemented effectively in several tribal areas.
According to Kejriwal, important decisions concerning tribal communities should involve Gram Sabhas and local communities. He argued that greater participation of tribal communities is necessary when decisions affect their traditional resources and rights.
AAP Claims to Be Fighting for Tribal Rights
Highlighting the party’s position, Kejriwal said AAP is committed to raising issues concerning the rights and welfare of tribal communities. He claimed that party leaders have faced legal action while working on issues related to tribal rights.
Kejriwal reiterated that protecting tribal rights, natural resources and community participation should remain a priority and called for greater attention to the concerns of tribal communities across the country.
