What Steps is the Odisha Government Taking to Address Tribal Grievances in Malkangiri After Ethnic Violence?
Synopsis
Following recent ethnic violence in Malkangiri, the Odisha government has initiated critical measures to address tribal grievances, including land titles, financial assistance, and educational opportunities. This proactive approach aims to restore peace and ensure the welfare of the affected communities.
Key Takeaways
Government initiatives to aid tribal families following ethnic violence.
Provision of land titles to landless and homeless tribal families.
Financial assistance for victims and property damage.
Educational opportunities through increased school seats and teacher appointments.
Commitment to restoring peace and stability in Malkangiri district.
Bhubaneswar, Jan 1 (NationPress) Following the significant ethnic violence that erupted last month in the predominantly tribal Malkangiri district, the Odisha government convened on Thursday to implement a set of measures aimed at resolving the various concerns raised by the tribal communities in the area.
The series of decisions emerged from a high-level meeting chaired by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi at the Lok Seva Bhawan.
According to a statement from the Chief Minister's Office (CMO), it was agreed that Malkangiri District Collector Somesh Kumar Upadhyay will assess hundreds of outstanding cases under Regulation 2/56 (amended in 2002) every two weeks and report progress to the Southern Revenue Divisional Commissioner Sangram Keshari Mohapatra and the state government.
The government also committed to granting permanent land titles to the landless and homeless tribal families within the state.
“Swift arrangements will be made to issue permanent 'pattas' under the FRA (Forest Rights Act) and OGLS (Odisha Government Land Settlement Act). The District Collector will monitor progress monthly and update the state government,” the CMO stated.
Additionally, the Odisha government intends to provide permanent 'pattas' to families displaced due to the Machhkund Irrigation Project.
The decisions taken in the high-level meeting also included that the Additional Chief Secretary of the Revenue and Disaster Management Department, Deoranjan Kumar Singh, will conduct a quarterly review of all revenue-related issues in Malkangiri and report back to the state government.
“The Water Resources Department will initiate efforts soon to enhance irrigation facilities for upland agricultural lands of tribal and other communities near water bodies,” the CMO further noted.
The government also resolved to ensure that tribal applicants can take advantage of the Chief Minister's Agriculture Development Scheme, PMEGP (Prime Minister's Employment Generation Programme), and PMFME (Pradhan Mantri Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises).
Immediate filling of vacant Multilingual Education teacher positions in Koya, Didayi, and Bonda tribal languages at the primary school level will be undertaken by the State School and Mass Education Department.
Moreover, the state plans to increase the number of seats in higher secondary schools in Malkangiri district, enabling tribal and other students to pursue education beyond Class 10.
Furthermore, more hostels will be constructed in schools and colleges to accommodate students from remote regions of the state.
A special financial aid of Rs 10 lakh from the Chief Minister's Relief Fund will be allocated to the family of the deceased Lake Padiami, a resident of Rakhelguda village, whose brutal murder by individuals from the nearby MV-26 village ignited widespread violence among local tribals against refugees from Bangladesh on December 7 and 8 last year.
“Based on the district administration's report, every partially or fully damaged house in MV-26 village will receive financial assistance of up to Rs 75,000 according to the assessed loss. Similarly, shopkeepers will receive assistance of up to Rs 20,000 for repair based on assessed value. Relevant departments will keep the Chief Minister's Office updated on the implementation of these decisions,” the CMO concluded.
Frequently Asked Questions
What measures is the Odisha government implementing for tribal families?
The Odisha government is providing permanent land titles, financial assistance for damages, and educational opportunities to tribal families affected by the recent ethnic violence.
Who is overseeing the implementation of these measures?
Malkangiri District Collector Somesh Kumar Upadhyay and Additional Chief Secretary Deoranjan Kumar Singh will oversee the implementation and review the progress of these initiatives.
What support is being given to families displaced by the Machhkund Irrigation Project?
The government has committed to granting permanent 'pattas' to families displaced by the Machhkund Irrigation Project.
How is the government ensuring education for tribal students?
The Odisha government is increasing seats in higher secondary schools and filling vacant teacher positions in tribal languages to support education for tribal students.
What financial support is available for those affected by the violence?
A special financial assistance of Rs 10 lakh is being provided to the family of the deceased Lake Padiami, along with other financial aids for damaged properties.
