Tribal bodies, grassroots leaders welcome PESA rules approval in Jharkhand

Tribal organisations and grassroots representatives across Jharkhand have welcomed the Cabinet’s approval of the Panchayat Provisions (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Rules, describing it as a long-awaited measure to strengthen self-governance in tribal regions and restore the authority of Gram Sabhas.

Representatives of the Kendriya Sarna Samiti, Raji Padha Sarna Prarthana Sabha and the Adivasi Balak-Balika Chhatravas, Ranchi, met Chief Minister Hemant Soren at his official residence to express their gratitude. The delegation arrived with traditional drum beats, reflecting widespread support among tribal communities following the Cabinet decision.

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Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said the response from villages and hamlets indicated how deeply the PESA framework resonated with the aspirations of tribal and indigenous communities. He said the law was intended to restore decision-making powers to Gram Sabhas and reinforce local self-rule in Scheduled Areas.

Recalling the prolonged struggles of Jharkhand’s tribal ancestors to protect land, forests, water resources and cultural traditions, Soren said the state’s formation in 2000 was the result of decades of sacrifice. He acknowledged that, despite statehood, attempts had been made to dilute tribal rights and said the approval of the PESA rules aimed to correct those historical distortions.

Grassroots leaders echoed similar views. Kanhu Murmu, Mukhiya of Keradungri Panchayat in East Singhbhum, said the long-standing demand of tribal communities had been fulfilled and that PESA would strengthen local self-rule. Yogendra Bhagat of Ghaghra in Gumla said the law would empower Gram Sabhas and promote the holistic development of Panchayats.

Divakar Soren, a Pir Pargana from Seraikela-Kharsawan, said tribal communities had waited a long time for the decision, while Ram Prasad Badaik, president of the Scheduled Area Mukhiya Association in Gumla, called it a major boost for development in tribal regions.

The Chief Minister stressed the need for widespread awareness about the provisions of the law, cautioning that misinformation could weaken its impact. He said the government would ensure that people at the grassroots level understood their rights and responsibilities under PESA.