Why are Congress protests in Ranchi demanding a ‘Sarna Religion Code’ for tribals in the census?
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Synopsis
The push for a Sarna religion code in Jharkhand's census has escalated, with Congress protests igniting discussions surrounding tribal identity. Leaders argue that the current census framework fails to acknowledge tribal faiths, demanding recognition and representation for Adivasi communities. This growing momentum highlights the need for cultural preservation amidst political challenges.
Key Takeaways
- Demand for Sarna religion code intensifies.
- Protests led by Congress in Ranchi.
- Governor met with a memorandum for recognition.
- Importance of tribal identity in census.
- Growing political pressure on the Centre.
Ranchi, May 26 (NationPress) The call for a distinct Sarna religion code for tribal communities within the national census has gained momentum in Jharkhand. The Congress organized a demonstration outside the Raj Bhavan in Ranchi on Monday.
This protest was spearheaded by Jharkhand Congress in-charge K. Raju, co-in-charge Sirivella Prasad, and state party President Keshav Mahato Kamlesh.
Following the sit-in, a delegation met with Governor Santosh Gangwar, presenting a memorandum that urged the Centre to acknowledge the unique religious identity of the tribal population by incorporating a separate category for Sarna adherents in the census.
"Sarna represents more than just a belief system; it embodies a lifestyle deeply connected to nature worship. The tribal community is entitled to a unique religious classification that reflects their identity," Raju stated while addressing party members.
The memorandum highlighted that the census currently recognizes only six religions—Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Buddhism, and Jainism—while omitting tribal faiths like Sarna, which are adhered to by significant numbers of Adivasis in Jharkhand and other regions.
Minister Shilpi Neha Tirkey emphasized the necessity of including the Sarna code in the seventh column of the census form. “The tribal community values equality and the freedom to practice their faith. Denying them a separate code constitutes a violation of their constitutional rights,” she remarked.
Deepika Pandey Singh, another Congress Minister, pointed out that the Jharkhand Assembly had unanimously passed a resolution advocating for the Sarna code and forwarded it to the Centre, yet the Central government has not responded. "This inaction appears to be a deliberate attempt to undermine tribal identity," she claimed.
State Congress President Kamlesh announced that the party would amplify their protests. “We are prepared to escalate this struggle to Delhi if necessary. The demand for the Sarna religion code will not be ignored,” he declared.
Numerous senior leaders, including Subodh Kant Sahay, Sukhdev Bhagat, Rameshwar Oraon, Rajesh Kachhap, Rajesh Thakur, along with other MLAs and party workers from across the state, participated in the protest.
The ruling Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) has also declared a statewide protest on the matter scheduled for Tuesday, indicating increasing political pressure on the Centre to take action.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the importance of acknowledging the diverse identities within our nation. The demand for a Sarna religion code is a reflection of the tribal communities' aspiration for recognition and respect. It is crucial for the government to address these concerns, ensuring that every citizen's identity is honored in national discourse.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Sarna religion code?
The Sarna religion code is a proposed classification for tribal faiths in the national census, aimed at recognizing the unique religious identity of tribal communities.
Why is the Congress protesting for the Sarna code?
The Congress is protesting to ensure that the tribal community's religious identity is officially acknowledged in the census, which currently excludes many tribal faiths.
What impact does the census have on tribal communities?
The census impacts resource allocation, representation, and recognition of tribal identities, crucial for their rights and cultural preservation.
What steps has the Jharkhand Assembly taken regarding this issue?
The Jharkhand Assembly passed a resolution unanimously demanding the inclusion of the Sarna code in the census and forwarded it to the Central government.
What are the next steps for the Congress party?
The Congress party plans to escalate their agitation, potentially taking their demands to Delhi if necessary, to ensure the Sarna religion code is recognized.
