Tribal MLAs Protest in Maharashtra: Key Issues and Demands
Background:
In Maharashtra, tribal communities have been protesting against the inclusion of the Dhangar community in the Scheduled Tribe (ST) reservation category. They argue that this move would dilute their own reservation benefits under the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act (PESA), 1996.
Who Are the Protesting MLAs?
Several tribal Members of Legislative Assembly (MLAs), including Deputy Speaker Narhari Zirwal, are leading the protests. Zirwal, a senior NCP MLA from the tribal-dominated Dindori constituency, has been vocal in his opposition to the inclusion of Dhangars in the ST reservation category.
Key Issues and Demands:
- Recruitment Under PESA: Tribal MLAs allege that the government has stalled the recruitment of tribals under PESA in 17 different categories. They demand that the government fulfill these reservations and appoint qualified tribal candidates.
- Exclusion of Dhangars from ST Reservation: The MLAs strongly oppose the inclusion of the Dhangar community in the ST reservation category. They argue that the Dhangars are a different community, and including them in the ST quota would reduce the share of opportunities for tribals.
- Addressing Concerns of Dhangar Community: While rejecting the Dhangar community’s inclusion in the ST reservation, the tribal MLAs have expressed support for providing alternative benefits and schemes for their development. They demand that the government address the genuine concerns of the Dhangar community without undermining the rights of tribals.
Protest Actions:
On October 4, 2024, several tribal MLAs staged a dramatic protest at the Mantralaya building, the seat of the Maharashtra government. They jumped onto safety nets installed on the building’s third floor, defying police barricades.
The MLAs remained suspended in the nets for several hours, demanding that Chief Minister Eknath Shinde meet their delegation and address their concerns. Police eventually removed the MLAs from the nets, but they continued their sit-in protest within the Mantralaya premises.
Chief Minister Shinde is scheduled to meet with the protesting MLAs later in the day to discuss their demands. However, the situation remains tense, and further protests are expected if the government does not respond satisfactorily to the MLAs’ concerns.
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Divya 
Mehek