Andhra CM assures tribals no plan to repeal 1/70 Act

Amaravati

In response to a protest by tribal organizations, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu assured that his government has no plans to repeal the 1/70 Act, which protects tribal land rights. The Joint Action Committee (JAC), consisting of tribal groups and political parties, called for a 48-hour bandh in tribal areas. This protest followed remarks made by Andhra Pradesh Assembly Speaker Ayyanna Patrudu, who suggested amending the 1/70 Act to attract investments in the tourism sector in tribal regions.

Naidu emphasized that his government remains committed to safeguarding tribal rights and preserving their land. The 1/70 Act, established in 1970, prevents the transfer of tribal land to non-tribals. Naidu assured that the government would continue to focus on the welfare of tribal communities, improving their education, healthcare, and living conditions, and supporting the recognition of tribal products, such as Araku coffee.

The Chief Minister also addressed concerns about the recent cancellation of Government Order Number 3, which aimed to ensure only tribals were appointed as teachers in tribal areas. Naidu assured the community that the government would work to reinstate this order. The JAC demanded an apology from the Speaker, claiming his remarks threatened tribal rights and livelihoods. The bandh in northern Andhra, scheduled for February 11-12, aims to protest the Speaker's comments.