State government snatching tribal land in Kolhan, says Champai

Ranchi: Former Jharkhand chief minister Champai Soren on Friday accused the state govt of forcibly acquiring 830.92 acres of tribal land in Kolhan division to compensate for forest land used for mining in Chakla coal block in Palamu.Speaking to the media at his residence here, Champai, a BJP leader, claimed the move bypassed customary tribal self-governance (Manki-Munda) system and threatened the livelihood of farmers.“On Sept 24, the state cabinet permanently allocated 271.92 acres of non-forest land in Udajo under the Noamundi block of West Singhbhum district to Hindalco Industries Limited for afforestation. On December 23, the cabinet approved the transfer of a further 559 acres to Hindalco, including 216.78 acres in Mouza Bokna of Novamundi; 284.89 acres in Jeteya, Dumrjova, and Bambasai; and 57.50 acres in Nimdih of Tonto. According to official records, the land was granted for afforestation in exchange for forest land diverted to mining in Palamu division,” Champai said.“Our purpose is not to oppose afforestation, but our question is that when the coal mine is damaging the environment in Palamu division, why is compensation not being done there? What is the purpose of giving land in another corner of the state? Meaning, if it’s tribal area land, just snatch it, what difference does it make?” Champai said.The BJP MLA said locals have been farming and grazing their cattle for years on the land where the company is now preparing to plant trees. They fear that if this land is snatched, their livelihood will be affected. “Who will compensate for that? The state govt should explain what is the reason for snatching this land without any displacement policy? When permission has not been taken from the Gram Sabha for this, then how was this decision taken?” Champai said.Meanwhile, in the Saranda forest area, the state government has decided to create a wildlife sanctuary without consulting the local tribal population. “The wildlife living there should be protected, we support this, but what about the tribals living there? What plan do you have for them? Who gave you the right to displace them?” he asked. He said,“In the Saranda forest area, there are a total of 50 revenue villages and 10 forest villages, where more than 75,000 people live. In this same forest are located our various sacred places, Sarna sites, Deshauli, Sasandiri, Masna which ensure our distinct social identity and existence.”“Basically, minor forest produce and herbs obtained from the forest are the main basis of livelihood for tribal society. In such circumstances, the decision to declare the Saranda forest area as a wildlife sanctuary completely ignoring the interests of us tribals, indigenous people, and primitive tribal groups cannot be justified in any way,” he said.JMM general secretary Supriyo Bhattacharya, when contacted, said the party will study Champai’s allegations before responding.