In Chandil, India, local residents recently met to discuss their concerns about upcoming PESA rules. These rules, they fear, may be influenced by corporate interests. The meeting took place in Chokegadia, which is part of the Kukru block in the Seraikela-Kharsawan district.
Patkom Disom Majhi Pargana Mahal and the Adivasi Bhumij-Munda Youth Organization of the Chandil subdivision organized the gathering. The main topic of discussion was how to protect the original intent of the PESA Act of 1996. This act is designed to give self-governance to tribal populations in India.
Shyamal Mardi led the meeting and stressed the importance of sticking to the original PESA Act. He stated the community would fight against any rules created to benefit corporations. The meeting participants focused on making sure the new rules match the act’s original goals.
The PESA Act of 1996 aims to empower tribal communities by giving them control over their own affairs. It allows them to manage their resources and make decisions about their development. Therefore, the community wants to ensure the new PESA rules don’t weaken these protections because of corporate pressure.
To that end, the meeting also served as an opportunity to educate people about the original PESA Act. By understanding the act’s provisions, they can better defend their rights. Ultimately, the community is united in its commitment to preserving the autonomy granted to them by the PESA Act.