Approximately 500 followers of Gandhian principles—Tana Bhagats—from across the State on Friday gathered in Ranchi to convey the present status of their livelihood, problems in linking to the mainstream and on the issue of extinction. A ‘Symposium on Tana Bhagat and Gandhian thoughts’ was organised by Vikas Bharti on Friday giving emphasis on revamping the culture of Tana Bhagats and ways to resolve one of the most pivotal issues of land which have been lingering since long.
The Tana Bhagat movement which was anti-zamindari, anti-missionary and anti British helped in gaining Independence but their situation changed when they were completely out shaded and had to lead a despondent life. “We need to protect their culture and pay attention to their issues especially the land issue. The issues of Tana Bhagats need to be brought into limelight. Presently the community is plagued with several matters which need immediate attention,” said Vikash Bharti, Secretary, Padma Shri Ashok Bhagat while addressing the Tana Bhagats.
Remembering the contribution of Tana Bhagats in the Gandhian movement and independence, Minister of Sports, Arts, Youth Affairs and Cultural activities, Amar Kumar Bauri assured them to provide all necessary assistance and aid to Tana Bhagats in the years to come.
Highlighting on the present status of Tana Bhagats dispersed in various states, districts and blocks and is compelled to lead a miserable life due to the negligence they have faced from all the parties since long, leader of Tana Bhagat, Ganga Tana Bhagat, said, “Considering the present situation and due to the apathy of Government, Tana Bhagats are on the verge of extinction. We want our ancestral land back, which the community has lost in fight with the British government. Since ages we have been deprived of the basic amenities. The Government should form a committee or board and it should conduct a monthly review on the situation of Tana Bhagats.”
“State Government should also provide jobs to the members of Tana Bhagat community to bring us to the mainstream. In the political whirlpool, facilities like proper health care services and education is not fairly been imparted among the Tana Bhagat descendants which is hampering the progress of the community,” pointed out Ganga Tana Bhagat.
Director of Gandhi Smriti Darshan, Dipankar Srigyan showing concern about the identity of Tana Bhagat and over the land row, said, “Discussion on living standards of Tana Bhagats, livelihood opportunities, occupation, education, health problems, traditional cultural practices and cultural degradation, migration and trafficking including the vital issue of development of youths of the community will give the concern persons a much wider perspective on the present situation of the community.”