Agartala: Janajati Suraksha Mancha (JSM), Tripura Chapter has raised the demand for scrapping the government benefits extended to tribal people who had converted themselves to “Christianity” or other religion.
Speaking to EastMojo exclusively, Kartik Tripura, joint convenor of JSM, Tripura State Chapter, said, “On July 13 last, a state-level conference of our organisation was held in Agartala. The community heads of different tribal groups attended the meeting and expressed their views. The central topic of discussion was the scrapping of Schedule Tribe status to the people who had converted to other faiths. By default, they become entitled to benefits as religious minorities. For that the Article 342 of the Indian constitution needs to be amended.”
Justifying his stance, he said, “The Scheduled Tribe benefits extended to people for protection of their culture and social customs. Those who got converted into other religions have nothing in common with the traditional tribal culture and customs. They follow an altogether different path. Besides, a section of these people are accessing dual benefits both for ST status and as religious minorities. If one person gets benefited by government schemes and funds allocated under two separate departments it is quite discriminatory for the rest of the others.”
Dear Reader,
Every day, our team at EastMojo travels through rain, rough roads, and remote hills to bring you stories that matter – stories from your town, your people, your Northeast.
We do this because we believe in truthful, independent journalism. No big corporate backing, no government pressure – just honest reporting by local journalists who live and breathe the same air you do.
But to keep doing this work, we need you. Your small contribution helps us pay our reporters fairly, reach places others ignore, and keep asking the tough questions.
If you believe the Northeast deserves its own fearless voice, stand with us.
Support independent journalism. Be a Member.
Thank you,
Karma Paljor
Editor-in-Chief, eastmojo.com
He also informed EastMojo that a mega rally would be organised in December in Agartala in participation of people from different parts of the state. “In order to make our voice heard by the government, this rally will be organised in December this year with the demand for the amendment of Article 342. Our workers and volunteers from all over the state will participate in the mega rally that we are planning at the end of this year,” he added.
Also Read | Congress holds LS polls strategy meet for northeastern states