Bhopal: A heated debate erupted in the Assembly today over the rejection of tribal land claims and evictions under the Forest Rights Act. While Leader of Opposition Umang Singhar heavily criticized the government, Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav made a significant outreach, inviting the opposition for a joint meeting on tribal issues.
“If the opposition wishes to sit together, and offers positive suggestions, the government is open-minded and ready,” CM Yadav stated, marking a rare moment of bipartisan collaboration offer in the House on such a sensitive matter.
Disputed land claims
Singhar, along with MLAs Ajay Arjun Singh and Dr. Hiralal Alawa, highlighted that over 6 lakh claims were filed, but 3.22 lakh were rejected. They expressed concern that vast forest lands might be handed to private entities, questioning the fate of tribals who have long protected these forests.
Forest Minister of State Dilip Singh Ahirwar, in a written reply, stated that 2.30 lakh tribals have received titles for 3.70 lakh hectares. He clarified that three-tier committees, not forest officials, decide claims based on possession status as of December 13, 2005.
CM assures transparency and relief
CM Yadav countered that no titles were distributed during Congress rule, crediting BJP for the current allocations. He announced plans to digitize pre-2005 land records for transparency. Tribal Affairs Minister Kunwar Vijay Shah affirmed MP is the first state to accept satellite imagery as evidence for land titles.
CM Yadav also unequivocally assured that no one would be rendered homeless during the monsoon, instructing officials to avoid such actions.
