Forest Department, Tribal Leaders Clash on Hunting Traditions
Key Points:
- Forest officials urge ban on wildlife hunting during festival
- Dalma leader defends centuries-old hunting tradition
- Sendra festival scheduled for April 27 in Dalma hills
JAMSHEDPUR – A meeting in Parsudih highlighted tensions between officials and tribal leaders over traditional hunting practices during the upcoming Sendra festival.
A key meeting was held in Parsudih area on Monday. It focused on preparations for the Sendra festival.
Meanwhile, officials and tribal representatives expressed opposing views during discussions.
The meeting took place at Dalma Raja Rakesh Hembrom’s residence. It included forest officials and Sendra committee members.
However, disagreements over hunting practices became evident during the talks.
Forest officials urged people to avoid hunting wild animals. They emphasized strict compliance with wildlife laws.
Moreover, they advised celebrating traditions without using modern weapons.
Ranger Dinesh Chandra stressed maintaining ecological balance. He said traditions must align with conservation rules.
On the other hand, he warned against using traps, guns, or harmful tools.
Dalma Raja Rakesh Hembrom defended the traditional practice. He said hunting is part of longstanding tribal customs.
Meanwhile, he demanded no restrictions on participants during the festival.
He opposed checkpoints and interference by forest staff. He also requested basic facilities for participants gathering in foothill areas.
Moreover, he warned of protests if authorities obstruct festival activities.
He stated that thousands attend the Sendra festival annually. According to him, the event holds deep cultural significance.
In contrast, officials remain concerned about wildlife protection laws.
The festival will be observed on April 27 in Dalma hills. Preparations will begin on April 25.
Meanwhile, participants will gather at Fadalogoda after departing from Gadra.
Rituals will include prayers to local deities before celebrations begin. The gathering marks the formal start of Sendra.
However, tensions between law enforcement and tradition continue to rise.
The situation remains sensitive ahead of the festival. Authorities may increase monitoring in the region.
Meanwhile, tribal groups are expected to proceed with traditional practices.
