Adivasis From SGNP And Yeoor March To Raj Bhavan Seeking Forest Rights, Basic Amenities And ESZ Protection

Hundreds of tribal residents from the Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP) and Yeoor embarked on a 38-kilometer march towards Raj Bhavan on Thursday, advocating for the implementation of forest rights, protection against displacement, basic amenities, and the safeguarding of the SGNP's Eco-sensitive Zone (ESZ). Organized by the Adivasi Ekta Parishad, the protest commenced from the SGNP gate and encountered resistance from police as they navigated the Western Express Highway.

The demonstrators reached Malad by evening, but were once again obstructed by police barricades. They are anticipated to pause at Goregaon Check Naka tonight and continue their journey towards Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) on Friday, ultimately reaching Raj Bhavan on September 13.

The protestors, alongside environmental activists, vehemently opposed the master plan for the development of SGNP's ESZ, contending that it would open the green zone to infrastructure projects and permanently harm Mumbai's natural resources. Despite the Bhosari Municipal Corporation (BMC) receiving suggestions and objections regarding the draft, the protestors claimed that thousands of them were disregarded, as the corporation failed to hold equitable public hearings before finalizing the plan.

They are seeking the strict and immediate execution of the Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006, including the allocation of individual and community forest rights titles.

Additionally, the demonstrators are urging the stringent implementation of the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act (PESA), 1996, asserting that no development or infrastructure project should proceed without the prior consent of the concerned Gram Sabha. Another crucial demand is an immediate cessation of forced evictions and land acquisitions for infrastructure projects and private corporate corridors.

The protesters have also demanded continuous access to clean drinking water, electricity, all-weather roads, schools, and healthcare facilities in tribal communities, citing that forest regulations frequently create administrative obstacles in delivering these essential services. Furthermore, the marchers have objected to the proposed privatization of 490 tribal Ashram Schools, demanding that the decision be revoked and that tribal children be granted quality education and nutritious meals.