Asserting Forest Rights: Erection of Bill board in Rouro Village

On February 20th, 2024, the villagers of Rouro in Upar Barga Panchayat, Gola Prakhand, Ramgarh district, came together for a momentous occasion to assert their rights under the Forest Rights Act (FRA) of 2006. This significant event saw the villagers erect billboards along their traditional forest boundaries, emphasizing their entitlements under Section 3(1)(i) and Section 5 of the FRA.

A Day of Unity and Purpose

The program was spearheaded by the Gram Pradhan, Dip Mani Soren, and presided over by the esteemed JJBA activist, Asha Hansada. The day began with a meeting of the Gram Sabha, where the villagers gathered to discuss the importance of the billboards and the need to abide by rules and regulations. Prominent village figures shared their views on asserting their rights, setting a tone of determination and solidarity for the day’s activities.

The March of Assertion

Following the Gram Sabha meeting, a spirited march to the traditional boundary site was organized. Villagers adorned in traditional attire sang and danced, filling the air with a sense of cultural pride and unity. They chanted slogans such as “Na Vidhan Sabha Na Lok Sabha, Sabse Uncha Gram Sabha,” “Van Vibhag Jangal Chhodo,” “Van Vibhag ki Manmani Nahi Chalegi,” and “Van Vibhag Adiwasiyon par Farji Mukadama karna Band Karo,” echoing their collective demand for recognition and respect of their forest rights.

Erecting the Billboards

Upon reaching the boundary site, the villagers conducted traditional rituals, symbolizing their deep connection to the land. With great enthusiasm and amidst continuous chanting of slogans, they dug holes and erected the billboards. These billboards are not merely signposts but powerful symbols of the villagers’ rights and their determination to protect and preserve their forest heritage.

Gathering of Leaders and Activists

Today’s event was not just a local affair; it saw the participation of notable figures such as Mukhiya Jitlal Manjhi, Gola Block Gram Sabha Manch President Ramesh Murmu, Nayke Jog Manjhi, and Narsigdih Manjhi Hadam. Several activists from the Jharkhand Jangal Bachao Andolan also attended, offering their support and briefing the Gram Sabha about the specific rights of villagers under the FRA.