The Jharkhand Janadhikar Mahasabha (JJM), a coalition of organizations committed to defending people's rights and democratic values in the state, on Monday urged the state government to implement the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act (PESA).
The group also called for amendments to the Jharkhand Panchayat Raj Act (JPRA), 2001, to incorporate all provisions of PESA, ensuring its proper execution in the state.
During a press conference, JJM members emphasised the need to revise the draft of the PESA state rules, arguing that while the provisions of PESA can be enforced through the JPRA, many essential elements are missing from the existing law.
Aloka Kujur, a member of JJM, pointed out that PESA mandates the state's panchayat act to align with customary laws, socio-religious traditions, and the traditional management of community resources in Scheduled Areas.
However, she argued that the JPRA does not reflect this core principle, making its amendment the first necessary step toward implementing PESA effectively.
Dinesh Murmu, another JJM member, highlighted that several key rights granted to gram sabhas under PESA have not been incorporated into the JPRA. He further noted that some provisions in the JPRA concerning Scheduled Areas contradict the fundamental spirit of PESA, necessitating immediate corrective measures.
Also Read: BJP attacks JMM on omission of 18 lakh JMMSY beneficiaries
Follow us
