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In a significant development, 1,111 members of tribal communities across 13 districts in Uttar Pradesh gathered at Varanasi’s Kashi Vishwanath temple. Adorned in traditional attire, they came together under the banner of Janjati Suraksha Manch (JSM), U.P., an organization dedicated to tribal welfare. Their primary concern revolves around individuals who have converted to other religions and are allegedly exploiting the Scheduled Tribe (ST) reservation meant for genuine tribal members.
These tribal representatives fervently appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to take action against those who have converted to different faiths, urging their removal from the ST list. They argue that such individuals, by adopting other religions, no longer maintain the cultural and social ties integral to the tribal community. Their plea emphasizes the importance of preserving the rights of genuine tribal people, ensuring that reservation benefits are rightfully distributed.
During their visit, these tribal members engaged in traditional prayers at the Kashi Vishwanath temple and explored the Kashi Vishwanath Dham. At this revered site, they handed over their demand letter to the temple’s Chief Executive Officer, Sunil Kumar Verma, and Temple Trust Chairman, Prof Nagendra Pandey, before forwarding a copy of the letter to Prime Minister Modi.
Tekram Kharwar, the General Secretary of JSM, expressed their hopes for PM Modi’s understanding and support, emphasizing the significance of Sanatana Dharma traditions among the tribal communities. Another participant, Rajkumar Vanvasi from a remote area in Ghazipur district, expressed joy after the temple visit.
Ramvichar Tekam, the event’s convenor, stressed the need for justice. He asserted that tribal communities, deeply rooted in Sanatana Dharma, cannot stand idly by while individuals who have left this tradition still enjoy the benefits meant for genuine tribal members. Their appeal for the removal of converted individuals from the ST list resonates with the larger aim of ensuring fairness and justice within tribal communities.
