Demolition in Lalkimati Village: A Clash Between Community Rights and Forest Department Actions
On May 18th, 2024, a significant incident took place in the village of Lalkimati, located within the Tajpur Panchayat of Chouparan block in Hazaribagh District. The Forest Department demolished two houses that were under construction, leaving the affected families in distress and igniting a heated discussion on community forest rights.
The Incident
The houses belonged to Nainu Munda, husband of Soni Devi, and Lalmani Devi, wife of Sanika Munda. These homes were being built under the state government scheme, Abuwa Awas Yojna. The Forest Department claimed the houses were illegally constructed on forest land, prompting the demolitions. This action has left the families of Nainu Munda and Lalmani Devi deeply saddened and fearful of further repercussions.
The Gram Sabha’s Stand
The Lalkimati Gram Sabha has strongly contested the actions of the Forest Department. According to the Gram Sabha, the community has already secured a Community Forest Rights (CFR) claim over 981 acres of forest land under the Forest Rights Act of 2006, as amended in 2008 and further refined by the rules established in 2012. Additionally, numerous Individual Forest Rights (IFR) claims were filed with Gram Sabha’s approval.
Meeting and Resolutions
In response to the demolitions, the Lalkimati Gram Sabha convened a meeting to address the issue and strategize on supporting the affected beneficiaries in asserting their rights. The meeting witnessed active participation from key figures including the president of the block and district Gram Sabha Manch. Mr. Rajesh Kumar Mahto, the central coordinator of the Jharkhand Jangal Bachao Andolan, was also present. Mr. Mahto provided valuable guidance to the villagers, helping them draft an application letter and educating them about their entitlements under the Forest Rights Act.
Legal and Political Actions
During the meeting, the Gramsabha made a unanimous decision to file a First Information Report (FIR) against the Van Vibhag (Forest Department). The application and the situation at hand were also addressed to the current Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA), Mr. Umashankar Akela Yadav, seeking his intervention and support.
The Forest Rights Act: A Brief Overview
The Forest Rights Act (FRA) of 2006 is a landmark legislation aimed at correcting historical injustices faced by forest-dwelling communities. It recognizes the rights of tribal communities and other traditional forest dwellers to forest land and resources. The act empowers Gram Sabha to determine the nature and extent of individual or community forest rights.
Key Provisions
Community Forest Rights (CFR): Grants communities the right to protect, regenerate, and manage any forest resource for sustainable use.
Individual Forest Rights (IFR): Recognizes the rights of individuals to cultivate and reside in forest land.
Community Participation: Emphasizes the role of Gram Sabha in managing forest resources and resolving conflicts.
The Path Forward
The situation in Lalkimati underscores the tension between forest conservation efforts and the rights of indigenous communities. The demolitions have highlighted the urgent need for clarity and enforcement of the rights granted under the FRA. It also brings to light the importance of community involvement in decision-making processes regarding forest land.
Community Solidarity and Legal Recourse
The unified response of the Lalkimati Gram Sabha, with the support of activists like Mr. Mahto and local political figures, reflects a strong community spirit and determination to defend their rights. The filing of an FIR and the appeal to the MLA signify their readiness to pursue all available avenues for justice.
Conclusion
The demolitions in Lalkimati serve as a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by forest communities in securing their rightful place in forest governance. As the villagers continue to fight for their homes and their rights, their story calls for greater awareness and support from broader society to ensure that the promises of the Forest Rights Act are fully realized.
This incident also raises broader questions about how we balance environmental conservation with human rights and social justice. The resolution of this conflict will not only affect the residents of Lalkimati but could also set a precedent for similar cases across India.