New Delhi (Agency): Prominent Congress leader, Rahul Gandhi, on Sunday targeted the central BJP government. He claimed the party tries to push tribal communities back into jungles by referring to them as “Vanvasi”, not “Adivasi”.
A few days back, Gandhi raised this concern in Rajasthan. He voiced his thoughts at a party rally. He expressed that the BJP “insults” tribal communities using the term “Vanvasi” and takes away their forest homes, handing them to big businesses.
Today, after starting the HT Connection at the Dr Ambedkar District Memorial Cancer Centre in Wayanad, Gandhi explained his views on this issue. He stated there’s a hidden motive behind calling tribals “vanvasis”. “It is to deny that you (tribals) are the original owners of the land and also restrict you to the jungle,” he said.
According to him, this ideology sees tribes as belonging to the jungle, implying they shouldn’t leave. Gandhi said that the Congress party can’t accept this term “vanvasi”. He believes it misrepresents the tribal communities’ history and their bond with the nation. “For us (Congress) you are Adivasi, the original owners of the land,” he emphasized.
Gandhi also spoke of the Adivasi’s deep connection with the land. He expressed that they should have full rights to their lands and forests. They should also have the same opportunities as other citizens, like access to education and jobs. “The entire planet should be open to you,” he added.
He further explained that the term ‘Adivasi’ indicates a unique wisdom and bond with Earth. In modern times, terms like ‘environment protection’ have gained attention due to human actions harming nature. But, Gandhi said, Adivasis have respected and protected the environment for millennia. “So we have a lot to learn from you,” he commented.
On a separate note, Gandhi addressed the cancer centre’s recent developments. He hoped the new electrical connection would help both doctors and patients. Gandhi expressed his satisfaction in allocating funds for the center. At the event, he also proposed the idea of mobile breast cancer screening units. This idea stems from a rising number of breast cancer cases in the area.
Ending his visit, Gandhi will head to Kozhikode district. He’s set to lay the foundation for the Community Disability Management Center at St. Joseph High School Auditorium. After, he will return to Delhi.
This visit to Kerala marks Gandhi’s first trip since resuming his role as the MP of Wayanad.