Want education and jobs, not liquor: Adivasi Morcha
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Ranchi: The Adivasi Bachao Morcha on Thursday marched from the Jaipal Munda stadium to the Albert Ekka Chowk, raising slogans and holding placards against the state Tribes Advisory Council's (TAC) May 21 move to allow retail liquor outlets in Jharkhand's tribal inhabited areas with gram sabha's consent.
The TAC, in a meeting led by chief minister (CM) Hemant Soren, approved a proposal to permit the establishment of liquor shops in tourist sites of national and international importance in the state, having a 50% or more tribal population.
The tribal groups alleged that the govt turned a blind eye to the basic needs of the Adivasis and was trying to promote liquor for earning revenue.
The convener of Adivasi Bachao Morcha, Prem Shahi Munda, said, "At a time when Adivasis are grappling with unemployment, poverty, and land alienation, the govt's focus on promoting liquor sales is both insensitive and detrimental. The decision will allow non-tribals to do business in tribal areas and purchase land, turning the tribals landless. The Council must introduce employment schemes for tribals, scholarship programmes to promote education among them.
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The Morcha announced plans for a sit-in protest outside the Raj Bhavan on May 27, ahead of a state-wide bandh scheduled for June 4 to protest the construction of a flyover ramp near the Kendriya Sarna Sthal at Siromtoli.
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