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Two tribal leaders were killed after protests to safeguard their rights in Goa. The tribal communities in Quepem, Goa, took a big blow to their spirit and protest when two of their young leaders, Mangesh Gaonkar and Dilip Velip, were killed three months ago following massive demonstrations in Balli village. Earlier that day, thousands of tribals had taken to the streets, blocked highways and railway tracks to demand a 12% reservation quota for government jobs and the immediate implementation of the Tribal Forest Rights Act that was enacted in 2006. Driven by frustration and apathy from the authorities, the Velip tribals' agitation turned violent, and the two young men were burnt in a building set on fire by angry locals. This is not an isolated case. In the light of domestication of dissent prevalent in India today, this continued suppression of the voices demanding rights that are theirs through violence needs to stop. |
The Woes of Musahar Community
This video shows a Musahar community of Bhadohi District, Uttar Pradesh. They were settled next to a forest, away from the town area, because of their ‘untouchable’ status. Community Correspondent Anil Kumar here reported a heart wrenching story of a young boy picked up by a wolf from the nearby...
Families in Bihar Living Under Extreme Stress of being Forcibly Evicted
In the Katihar district of Bihar state, 60 families are staying in shanties next to the State Highway. But they have to be relocated, because of the Highway expansion project, and that is the issue.