Pathalgadi Movement Resurfaces in Jamshedpur, Administration Intervenes Swiftly

A bid was made to revive the tribal tradition of Pathalgadi in Jamshedpur as a symbol of protest, inciting renewed tension. However, the Administration quickly intervened.

JAMSHEDPUR – The once-quiet issue of Pathalgadi has been reignited, attempting to stir unrest among tribal communities in Jamshedpur.

This time around, the epicentre of the protest was in Baridih, a locality situated within the city.

Tensions Rise After Stone Removal

Although local government authorities and Tata Steel swiftly removed the erected stone marker, the tribals have expressed discontentment over this action.

In response, they have begun mobilising for a protest movement.

In honour of Hul Diwas, which concluded on Friday, the tribals erected a stone at Baridih Chowk, in the name of Konka Kamar Karmali, the commander of Bhagwan Birsa Munda.

The Significance of Pathalgadi

Pathalgadi, a traditional tribal custom, is the act of erecting stone plaques in honour of tribal ancestors, or to mark important decisions or boundaries of their villages.

It gained political significance in 2018 when it was used as a symbol for the assertion of tribal rights over land, territory, and resources.

However, the governments see it as a challenge to their authority.

Also, there are many among the mainstream political parties who feel that Maoists, separatists and insurgents back this movement to foment trouble by misleading innocent tribal communities.

Potential Political Impact

With the upcoming assembly elections, it remains to be seen whether the Pathalgadi issue will affect the political climate as it did in the previous elections, leading to the ousting of the then-ruling government.

This incident is the first of its kind during the tenure of the current administration.