Jamshedpur: Indefinite protest launched against seizure of Pathalgarhi

Mail News Service

Jamshedpur, July 2:  A relentless demonstration commenced on Sunday as members of Birsa Sena and Chuad Sena began an indefinite fast in protest against the seizure of Pathalgarhi. The incident took place at Baridih Golchakkar, allegedly in the name of Birsa Munda’s commander, Konka Kumar Karmali. The army members have vowed to continue their fast until the confiscated Pathalgarhi is returned.

In addition to the fast, both organizations have issued a stern warning of an intense agitation starting from July 4th. The Pathalgarhi seizure occurred on Hool Day, led by Dinkar Kachhap, the central president of Birsa Sena, and his supporters. During the event, the special officer of JNAC (Jharkhand Nagar Nigam Adhikari Committee) and others reportedly removed the said stone. Birsa Sena has alleged the involvement of Tata Steel in the incident.

Prominent figures such as Dinkar Kachhap, Balram Karmakar, Raja Ram Murmu, and Gurcharan Karmakar have joined the hunger strike. Their cause has garnered support from various organizations, including BJP Schedule Tribe Morcha, Tribal Bhumij Chuad Sena, Joint Tribal Social Organization Chandil, and Lohra Karmali Coordination Committee. The protest revolves around the contentious issue of Pathalgarhi, a tribal practice of marking stones to signify self-governance and autonomy. Its seizure has sparked outrage among the demonstrators who are demanding the return of the confiscated Pathalgarhi. The fasting protesters remain steadfast in their determination to achieve their goal and draw attention to the issue.