UditVani , Jamshedpur : A massive “Jan Aakrosh Rally” swept through Chaibasa on Tuesday as thousands of people, under the banner of various social and tribal organizations, protested the government’s proposal to designate Saranda forest as a wildlife sanctuary.
Led by Budhram Laguri, Central President of the Adivasi Munda Samaj Vikas Samiti, the rally began at Gandhi Maidan and concluded at the Deputy Commissioner’s office, where a memorandum addressed to the Governor was submitted. The protesters later staged a road blockade at Gitilipi near Tata College Chowk, voicing strong opposition to the move.
Laguri asserted that Saranda is far more than a forest — it is the lifeline and cultural soul of the Adivasi, Moolvasi, and Primitive Tribal communities who depend on it for their livelihood, traditions, and identity.
“We will not allow Saranda to be declared a wildlife sanctuary under any circumstances. The forest is our source of life, livelihood, and identity,” Laguri declared.
According to him, the Saranda forest region includes 50 revenue villages and 10 forest villages, home to nearly 75,000 residents whose social and spiritual lives are deeply tied to the forest.
Sacred sites such as Sarna, Deshauli, Sasandiri, and Masna are vital to their cultural heritage.
Protesters warned that turning Saranda into a sanctuary would endanger livelihoods, access to forest produce and medicinal herbs, and employment from iron ore mining — all crucial to the region’s economy.
They also alleged that the proposal violates the Fifth Schedule of the Constitution, which protects the rights and autonomy of tribal areas. The groups urged the Governor to immediately withdraw the proposal, warning of a statewide tribal movement if their demands are ignored.
The demonstration saw spirited participation from members of the Kolhan Raksha Sangh, Adivasi Munda Samaj Vikas Samiti, and several other community organizations. Dressed in traditional attire and carrying symbolic weapons, the protesters filled the streets with the resounding slogan:
“Saranda Hamara Hai — Isse Nahin Bannewa Denge Sanctuary”
(Saranda is ours — we won’t let it become a sanctuary)
