Published: 3rd May, 2024
Context
Several members of DongriaKondh community, a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG), have warned of boycotting the upcoming elections unless ‘false’ cases registered against them for anti-mining protests and for allegedly having Maoist links are withdrawn.
About the Tribe
- The DongriaKondh community, whose name stems from "dongar," meaning 'hill,' refers to themselves as Jharnia, signifying 'protector of streams.'
- Situated in Odisha, the Niyamgiri hill range serves as the ancestral homeland of the DongriaKondh tribe.
- In a remarkable feat likened to a 'David and Goliath' battle, the DongriaKondh tribe successfully thwarted mining conglomerate Vedanta Resources' attempts to exploit the Niyamgiri Hills.
- Empowered by the Forest Rights Act, village councils known as Gram Sabhas possess the authority to safeguard protected areas, preventing detrimental practices that could harm the environment, biodiversity, or cultural heritage.
- Vedanta's endeavors were stymied as they failed to secure proper approval from the community Gram Sabhas, as mandated by the Forest Rights Act.
- For the DongriaKondh, their right to cultivate the slopes of Niyamgiri is divinely bestowed by Niyam Raja, whom they revere as their mountain god and royal ancestor, presiding over the sacred hills, including the revered NiyamDongar, or the Mountain of the Law.
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Fact Box: Niyamgiri Hills
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