02-05-2025
State SC/ST Commission intervenes in Pardhi-forest department dispute
Nagpur: The tribal Pardhi community members residing on forest department land face eviction, but they have questioned such a move citing that they have lived in "padas" located on hills outside villages for centuries. While the state govt has facilitated rehabilitation of such members from forest land, many of them are stuck in bureaucratic process due to lack of proper documentation say various tribal organisations.
Dharmpal Meshram, vice-chairman of Maharashtra State SC/ST Commission, said, "It's a complicated issue because tribals feel that they have lived there for generations, and how can govt remove them. On the other hand, legally the land is now under the forest department and hence has to be vacated. We are trying to ensure that all Pardhi community members are rehabilitated in a proper way."
Regarding lack of proper documentation, Meshram is working with all stakeholders. "I asked my department too see what help is required in obtaining the documents. We have also started ensuring that those who have the documents should apply for housing under the govt scheme and are allotted a unit. This apart, we will also have a word with the forest department to ensure that there is no friction between community members and the govt," he said.
Meshram said that Pardhis have traditionally lived outside villages in nearby hills. "We have such "padas" in Nagpur district too. But they are majorly seen from Buldhana onwards as you move to Marathwada," said Meshram.
