Mumbai
In the tribal-dominated Nandurbar district of Maharashtra, during the Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra’s entry into the state from Gujarat, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi announced on Tuesday that a caste census, an economic and financial survey, and a bolstering of the Forest Rights Act would be conducted by his party’s government.
It was emphasized by Gandhi that tribals, constituting eight per cent of India’s population, would receive a fair share in development under the Congress rule. He stated that upon assuming power, the Congress would initiate a caste census and an economic and financial survey nationwide, marking a significant and transformative endeavor to obtain precise data regarding each caste’s representation within the populace.
Additionally, a legislation guaranteeing Minimum Support Price (MSP) for farm and forest produce would be introduced, as promised by the Congress leader. Gandhi highlighted the alleged weakening of Acts like the Forest Rights Act and Land Acquisition Act by the BJP, stating the Congress’s commitment to not only fortify them but also ensure the expeditious settlement of tribals’ claims within one year.
Gandhi accused BJP governments of erroneously rejecting thousands of claims under the Forest Rights Act and depriving tribals of jungle access.
