Ranchi, May 28: Delay in the implementation of the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act (commonly known as PESA Act) has led to a slugfest between ruling JMM and BJP.
In a statement on Wednesday, former Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das criticized the current JMM-led government for its hesitancy in implementing the PESA Act.
Das, a former Odisha Governor under whose regime as chief minister there was massive unrest among tribals over government move to tinker with British era CNT/SPT Act alleged that foreign religious influences are impeding progress on this crucial legislation, enacted to recognize tribal rights in Scheduled Areas.
The PESA Act was originally passed in 1996 and most states have already put it into effect. However, Jharkhand remains an outlier, with the Act still unenforced over five years into Hemant Soren’s administration.
Das, a senior BJP leader, posed critical questions about whether the government’s stability is at risk if the PESA Act is implemented.
“Despite the Advocate General’s approval of draft rules in March 2024 and agreement from various state representatives, no action has been taken,” alleged Das.
Das urged the cabinet to approve and implement the PESA Act swiftly, ensuring that tribal communities in Jharkhand receive their long-awaited rights.
Reacting to Das’ remarks, JMM central general secretary Vinod Kumar Pandey accused the BJP of dividing tribals in the name of religion.
“BJP is conspiring to divide the tribal community in the name of ‘foreign religion’ and ‘original religion’. This is the same BJP that has repeatedly labeled tribals as Christians, casting doubts on their citizenship, employment and rights. BJP is trying to mislead tribals in the name of PESA,” Pandey said in an official statement.
He questioned Das why no efforts were made to implement the PESA Act during his five-year tenure as Chief Minister.
“The Hemant Soren government is seriously working on the PESA rules and the procedure is now at its final stage after completing all statutory processes,” he added.
