Many tribal leaders, primitive vulnerable tribals and ST MlAs on Wednesday came down heavily on the State Government for its lackadaisical attitude for their betterment and for poor treatment to them.
Attending a workshop on tribal issues organised jointly by Odisha Advasi Adhikar Abhiyan (OAAA) and Odisha Development Action Forum (ODAF) MlAs Prafulla Majhi and Bhujabal Majhi urged the Government to at least facilitate basic amenities, education, healthcare and forest rights to the tribals.
According to 2011 census, the tribal constitute 22.8 per cent of the population in the State. Further, more than 62 tribal communities, including 13 primitive vulnerable tribal groups are staying in the State.
“The Government is yet to formulate rules of the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act PESA. The reserved lands of the tribals are being used for other purposes illegally. Even tribals are forced to displace in the name of development,” rued Bhujabal Majhi.
MlA Prafulla Majhi demanded establishment of residential school in every villages in tribal dominated areas in the State. The speakers demanded that the Government adopt the Odisha Adivasi Policy-2015 being prepared by the Odisha Adivasi Adhikar Abhiyan for holistic development of tribals.
Odisha Advasi Mancha convenor Biranchi Nayak, Odisha Adivasi Adhikar Abhiyan president Prem Patra, Kui Sangha leader Basanti Majhi, Gadadhar Pradhan amnong many scheduled tribals participated in the workshop.