A prominent tribal and indigenous rights organization has voiced strong dissatisfaction with the Jharkhand government’s prolonged delay in implementing the PESA (Panchayats Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act. Central Vice President of the Adivasi-Mulvasi Janadhikar Manch, Vijay Shankar Nayak, emphasized that PESA is more than just a legal document; it is the bedrock of the existence, identity, and self-governance of Jharkhand’s society. He argued that the government’s silence and ambiguous stance directly undermine the traditional, Gram Sabha-based authority of the people. Nayak questioned whose pressure the government is operating under, stating the public deserves to know. He highlighted that areas with significant mining and land acquisition activities would be most affected by PESA’s implementation, fueling deep societal apprehension that the government might be succumbing to corporate mining interests. The organization is demanding clarity on why concrete steps are not being taken regarding PESA. Currently, Gram Sabhas lack essential rights and empowerment. Nayak pointed out that despite repeated government statements, no notification has been issued to implement PESA, nor is there any clear policy on empowering Gram Sabhas or defining the role of grassroots Panchayats, leaving the people of Jharkhand confused. He suggested this slow process appears to be an attempt to stall a constitutional right rather than empower village councils. The delay, he warned, will exacerbate the crisis of existence for Jharkhand’s society. Without PESA, land will be seized, minerals will be exploited, and the indigenous communities will be further marginalized. He cautioned that continued governmental inaction will lead to increased displacement, weakened traditional governance, and intensified exploitation of mineral resources in the coming years, sending a stark ‘now or never’ message. As the government’s second term nears its first anniversary, Nayak stressed that this is a critical juncture symbolizing the aspirations of Jharkhand’s people. He urged the government to declare a clear timeline for PESA’s implementation, ideally before or immediately after November 28, 2025, if it truly stands with the people. The organization is considering launching a statewide public campaign if the government maintains its silence, as the public is no longer willing to wait.
