DOGRA HERALD BUREAU
JAMMU, Nov 28
Today, the J&K Gujjar-Bakerwal Organisation’s Coordination committee convened a crucial press conference at the Press Club Jammu, aimed at informing and rallying the Gujjar Bakerwal Community for a significant event. The primary agenda was to extend an invitation for participation in the forthcoming Maha-Panchayat scheduled for December 3rd, 2023, at 10:00 A.M. The venue for this significant gathering is slated at the JDA ground opposite the Director of Information Office, adjacent to Railway Masjid in the Rail Head complex, Jammu.
Diverse representatives from Social Organisations, Activists, and various speakers utilized this platform to elucidate their demands and plight. A pivotal emphasis was placed on urging the Central Government to address concerns regarding the grant of Scheduled Tribe (ST) status to individuals deemed undeserving within the J&K region.
During the conference, Mr. Anwar Choudhary, Advocate and Convenor of the Co-ordination Committee, expressed apprehension about the implications of extending ST status to the so-called Paharis. He highlighted the potential disenchantment among ST communities, particularly the Gurjar Community, across the nation, warning of social disturbances that might ensue from this decision. Co-Convenor Bashir Ahmed Noon lamented the non-implementation of the Forest Rights Act 2006, particularly its failure in safeguarding the rights of the Gujjar Bakerwal community.
He criticized the inadequate support provided to the landless population, highlighting the discrepancy between the promised land allocation and the community’s actual needs, notably the rearing of substantial cattle herds.
Numerous speakers, including Mr. Jameel Choudhary and Sayeed Choudhary, voiced grave concerns regarding the deprivation of land and shelter for the Dhodi Gujjar Community. They accused government agencies like the Forest Department and JDA of demolishing homes and displacing ST individuals, exacerbating their plight.
The speakers vehemently advocated against the inclusion of the Pahari community in the ST list, asserting that it dilutes the status of the genuine ST populace. They urged the Central Government to reject the G.D. Sharma Commission’s report, alleging partiality and bias against the Gujjar Bakerwals. Furthermore, the speakers stressed the urgent need to combat the growing drug menace affecting the Gujjar Bakerwal youth and society at large. They demanded the inclusion of the Gojri language in the 8th Schedule of the Indian Constitution and the withdrawal of the JK Schedule Tribe Amendment Bill 2023.
The press conference featured several notable social workers and speakers, underscoring the urgency of community participation in the upcoming Maha-Panchayat. The event concluded with a collective appeal to the Gujjar-Bakerwal community to rally in substantial numbers and ensure the success of this pivotal gathering.
