Ramu Tekam submitted a memorandum to the Commission Chairman regarding the PESA Act.

CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: Madhya Pradesh Tribal Congress President, Ramu Tekam, met with the Chairman of the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes, Antar Singh Arya, at Loknayak Bhawan in Delhi. During the meeting, he discussed tribal issues in Madhya Pradesh and submitted a memorandum.

Director Tekam mentioned in the memorandum that the PESA (Panchayat (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act) law is not being given importance by the government and administration in the tribal areas of Madhya Pradesh. He stated that although the Madhya Pradesh government has implemented the PESA Act for the development of the tribal communities, it has not yet been effectively executed on the ground. The proposals passed by the Gram Sabha are not being enforced by the administration.

Director Tekam highlighted that the PESA Act grants tribal communities the right to self-governance and a greater role in decision-making. Through this law, traditional socio-economic rights of tribal communities are recognized. He outlined the following rights given to tribal communities under the PESA Act:

Gram Sabha approval is mandatory for any land acquisition or survey under government schemes.

Tribal communities have full rights over water, forests, and land.

Gram Sabhas have the authority to oversee local social services such as education, hostels, Anganwadis, hospitals, etc.

The management of forest produce is done by the Gram Sabha.

Gram Sabhas have the right to collect and sell forest produce.

Gram Sabhas also have the authority to approve development plans.

Gram Sabhas have the right to control intoxicants, including the power to prohibit the production, transportation, sale, and consumption of intoxicants within village boundaries.

Director Tekam expressed concern that these rights are only implemented on paper, while in reality, the Madhya Pradesh government has failed to effectively enforce the PESA Act. He submitted the memorandum requesting the Chairman of the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes to issue directives for the implementation and enforcement of the PESA Act. Rahul Uikey, President of Janpad Ghodadongri, was also present on this occasion.