The Government of Tamil Nadu should initiate steps forthwith to implement the Scheduled Tribes (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, said Communist Party of India (Marxist) Polit Bureau member Brinda Karat on Thursday. Leading a dharna organised jointly by the CPI (M), All India Kisan Sabha and the Tamil Nadu Tribals Association to draw the attention of the government to the problems confronting the people of Gudalur and Pandhalur in Tamil Nadu, she regretted that a stay on implementation of the Act was obtained from court.
Urging the government to regularise the occupation of lands near forests by the tribals, she said that their right to collect minor forest produce and cultivate crops should be recognised. The district administration should not evict or displace tribals or small farmers.
Pointing out that the DMK lost in the recent elections on account of corruption, she said, “Now the people want to see changes in policies of the government.”
Forest laws should not be used to remove poor people from lands, which they have been occupying for a long time. The provisions of the Tamil Nadu Preservation of Private Forests (TNPPF) Act should be used only against big farmers.
Lamenting that the authorities are using the Act to threaten small farmers, she declared, “We will not tolerate it.” There was a clause in the law which stated that small farmers can be exempted.
Adverting to the inconveniences caused to the poor farmers and tribals by the elephant corridor project near Gudalur, she said that rules relating to it were being violated only by the real estate mafia in collusion with government officials and resourceful persons.
Action should be taken against the resorts, hotels and big buildings in the corridor instead of targeting the small farmers. Ms. Karat claimed that big corporate houses are eyeing the Nilgiris because it was rich in platinum. She submitted a memorandum addressed to the Chief Minister to the district administration.
(Courtesy : The Hindu)
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