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Congress MLA, BJP Chief Press Jharkhand to Amend PESA Rules Over Omitted Tribal Customs

Critics say the new rules omit protections for customary law central to the 1996 statute.

Overview

  • The Jharkhand government notified its PESA rules on January 2, following cabinet approval on December 23.
  • Congress MLA Rameshwar Oraon said he will write to Chief Minister Hemant Soren and Rahul Gandhi seeking corrections, warning the omission could harm tribal communities.
  • Jharkhand BJP president Babulal Marandi alleged the rules violate the Act’s spirit, demanded immediate amendment, and pledged to take the campaign to the public.
  • Marandi cited the Act’s requirement that state laws conform to customary law, social and religious practices, and traditional management of community resources.
  • Oraon referenced political fallout in Chhattisgarh as a caution, while a Jharkhand Congress spokesperson defended the rules as the product of legal guidance and wide consultations.