Amidst Jharkhand’s upcoming elections, Konkadasa village’s tribal families struggle due to absence of essential facilities.
JAMSHEDPUR – Deep within the forests of the Dalma Gaj Project Wildlife Sanctuary, in the Badam block area of East Singhbhum district of Kolhan, lies Konkadasa. This tribal-dominated village houses 26/28 families of Bhumij Munda and a Savatal, and yet, remains a forgotten corner.
Jharkhand is close to celebrating 22 years of statehood, with elections coming up in just eight months. Despite this, the tribal inhabitants of Konkadasa village continue to suffer the deprivation of basic amenities.
Election Promises Remain Unfulfilled
Manoj Singh Sardar, a local resident, shares his disappointment with the political class. He states that with every election cycle, political leaders make grand promises that remain unfulfilled once the voting concludes.
Lack of Access to Basic Amenities
The village lacks fundamental facilities like roads, electricity, health centers, and potable water. 30 kilometers away from the district headquarters, many families have deserted the village, leaving the elderly and the young to fend for themselves.
Housing Crisis
Most of the tribal houses in the area are dilapidated due to lack of maintenance funds. Despite this, no governmental schemes, whether central or state, have reached these families. The struggle for survival continues in these ramshackle abodes.
Life Among Wildlife
Inhabitants of Konkadasa village live amidst wild animals like elephants, royal Bengal tigers, cheetahs, bears, pythons, and cobras. This proximity to wildlife poses an added challenge to their survival.
Health and Education Crisis
The village lacks a health center, leading to loss of life due to treatable conditions like snake bites. Education facilities only extend to primary school levels, perpetuating the cycle of poverty and underdevelopment.
