Why Is Congress Protesting Over Tribal Issues in MP?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
On July 30, the Congress party staged a protest in Bhopal, demanding the effective enforcement of the PESA Act to protect tribal rights. Led by Umang Singhar, the opposition criticized the BJP government for displacing tribal families. With former Chief Minister Kamal Nath supporting the claims, the Assembly session promises to be contentious.
Key Takeaways
- Protest by Congress highlights ongoing tribal rights issues in Madhya Pradesh.
- The PESA Act aims to protect tribal communities but faces implementation challenges.
- Former CM Kamal Nath supports claims of land expropriation for development.
- The Assembly session is expected to address significant budgetary concerns.
- BJP leaders defend their actions against opposition allegations.
Bhopal, July 30 (NationPress) The third day of the Monsoon session of the Madhya Pradesh Assembly commenced on Wednesday, amidst protests by Congress legislators outside the House.
A contingent of Congress lawmakers, spearheaded by the Leader of Opposition (LoP) Umang Singhar, staged a demonstration, accusing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led state administration of forcibly displacing Tribal families from forested regions in the state.
Singhar, a prominent Tribal leader and nephew of former Deputy Chief Minister Jamuna Devi, asserted that the PESA Act (The Panchayats Extension to Scheduled Areas), which grants special powers to tribal communities, is not being adequately enforced.
"Tribal individuals who established residences prior to 2006 in forest zones are being compelled to vacate. Their land records are being revoked. Tribals will not abandon the forest under any circumstances. The PESA Act was enacted to safeguard tribals' rights, but its full implementation remains elusive," he stated.
Singhar, representing the Gandhwani Assembly constituency in the tribal-heavy Dhar district, emphasized Congress's unwavering support for tribal rights.
"We will persist in our efforts to defend tribal rights. The BJP promised support to tribals during the Assembly elections but has since neglected these commitments," he further added.
Veteran Congress figure and former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath, who recently claimed that tribal lands are being expropriated and transferred to real estate developers in Chhindwara, noted that similar situations exist in other regions of the state.
Nath reiterated his allegations against the BJP-led Madhya Pradesh government, branding it as one of empty declarations in the Assembly that seldom materialize.
"This is a government of announcements and pledges, and I have consistently remarked that the numerous declarations made by Chief Minister Mohan Yadav and his predecessor Shivraj Singh Chouhan remain untraceable," he said upon his arrival at the Assembly on Wednesday.
During the third day of the Assembly session, both ruling and opposition members are set to deliberate on the supplementary budget within the House.
Additionally, several crucial bills concerning commercial tax and land registration are anticipated to be presented during Wednesday's proceedings.
The State Finance Minister Jagdish Devda had previously introduced the first supplementary budget for the year 2025-26 in the Assembly on Tuesday.
This budget includes a net allocation of Rs 2,356.80 crore, comprising Rs 1,003.99 crore in revenue and Rs 1,352.81 crore in capital.
In response to Congress's allegations regarding the inadequate implementation of the PESA Act by the Union government, seasoned BJP leader and State Panchayat and Rural Development Minister, Prahlad Patel, remarked, "Those questioning the implementation should recognize that the PESA Act has been executed commendably in Madhya Pradesh, yielding positive outcomes. Those who have achieved little in life are attempting to gain political advantage through unfounded claims."
Point of View
The core issue remains the protection of vulnerable communities. It is crucial for all parties to engage in constructive dialogue, ensuring that the rights and welfare of tribal populations are prioritized.
NationPress
31/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the PESA Act?
The Panchayats Extension to Scheduled Areas (PESA) Act is designed to empower tribal communities by providing them with special rights and governance structures.
Why are Congress legislators protesting?
Congress legislators are protesting to demand the effective implementation of the PESA Act, asserting that tribal families are being unjustly evicted from their lands.
Who is Umang Singhar?
Umang Singhar is the Leader of Opposition in the Madhya Pradesh Assembly and a prominent tribal leader, advocating for the rights of tribal communities.
What are the implications of the alleged land evictions?
Alleged land evictions could lead to significant socio-economic hardships for tribal families, threatening their livelihoods and cultural heritage.
How has the BJP responded to these allegations?
The BJP has defended its actions, claiming that the implementation of the PESA Act has been exemplary in Madhya Pradesh.
