Tribal Groups Rally against Kudmi ST Status Demand

Hundreds Protest in Gamharia with Traditional Arms, Submit Memorandum to Officials

Key Points:

• Tribal community members stage major protest at Gamharia block office
• Demonstrators warn of large-scale movement if Kudmi gets ST status
• Memorandum submitted to officials demanding protection of tribal rights

SERAIKELA – Tribal communities demonstrated at Gamharia block office in Seraikela-Kharsawan district, opposing the demand to grant Scheduled Tribe status to the Kudmi community.

Hundreds of tribal community members reached the block office on Monday. They wore traditional attire and carried traditional weapons. The protesters raised slogans throughout the demonstration.

“Stop including Kudmi in ST list” echoed across the venue. “Protect tribal rights” was another prominent slogan. The demonstrators made their position clear on the issue.

The tribal groups stated their firm opposition. They said Kudmi society cannot be included in the ST list. The community members made this position non-negotiable.

However, the protesters leveled serious allegations against certain organizations. They accused some groups of conspiring for political gains. These organizations allegedly want Kudmi declared as tribal, they said.

The tribal representatives called this a direct attack. They said it threatens the existence of genuine tribal communities. Moreover, it endangers their constitutional rights and protections.

Community representatives submitted a memorandum during the protest. The Block Development Officer received the document. The Circle Officer also accepted the memorandum from tribal leaders.

The memorandum contained a stern warning for both governments. It stated that tribal society would launch large-scale agitation. This would happen if Kudmi receives tribal status, it said.

The Circle Officer met with the demonstrators afterward. He assured them of appropriate action on their concerns. Their demands would reach the state government through district administration.

On the other hand, he appealed for peace. The CO requested maintenance of law and order. The tribal groups agreed to remain peaceful for now.

Representatives from various traditional organizations attended the gathering. Social organizations sent their delegates to the protest. Village headmen participated in large numbers at the venue.

Women’s groups joined the demonstration in strength. Youth organization members also came out in support. The participation cut across different sections of tribal society.

Traditional drums resonated throughout the protest site. The sound of nagadas filled the air around the venue. Indigenous slogans created an atmosphere of cultural assertion.

Tribal leaders clarified the nature of their protest. “This is not against any caste or community,” a leader stated. “We are protecting our traditional rights and identity,” he added.

The leaders emphasized their historical existence spanning thousands of years. They highlighted their distinct culture, language, and traditions. No law or political decision can alter this reality, they asserted.

In addition, tensions have escalated across three states recently. Jharkhand, Odisha, and West Bengal witnessed growing controversy. The Kudmi community’s demand for ST inclusion triggered these developments.

Meanwhile, tribal organizations across the region issued warnings. They declared this demand an attack on their rights. The groups threatened to intensify their movement if necessary.

The protest in Gamharia reflects wider tribal sentiment in Jharkhand. Similar demonstrations occurred in other districts of the state. The tribal communities remain united on this sensitive issue.