Jamshedpur: The Jharkhand Moolvasi Adhikar Manch has submitted a memorandum to the Deputy Commissioner of East Singhbhum, raising serious objections to the ongoing Tata Steel lease renewal process. The group has demanded that the renewal be halted until the constitutional, legal, and historical rights of the indigenous people (Moolvasis), original landowners (Raiyats), and displaced persons are fully secured.
Allegations of Illegal Land Surveys
Main Convener of the organization Harmohan Mahato highlighted a specific controversy regarding the Jagannath Temple land in Kadma, where a ground-breaking ceremony involving the President is proposed for February 26. Mahato claimed that according to the original 1908 Khatiyan (land records), this land belongs to Hem Mahato. He alleged that subsequent “incorrect surveys” wrongfully declared the plot as government land, violating the rights of the original record holders.
The Manch further alleged that vacant lands belonging to original inhabitants across Jamshedpur have been misappropriated under the guise of the lease. They are demanding an impartial investigation into these land records and the return of such properties to the rightful Raiyats.
Warning of Large-Scale Protests
The organization emphasized that any decision regarding the lease taken without the consent of the Gram Sabha or the participation of landowners is illegal under the PESA Act, the CNT Act, and the Fifth Schedule of the Constitution.
As a mark of protest against the administration’s perceived indifference, the Manch has announced a one-day sit-in demonstration in front of the Bistupur Postal Park on February 20. They warned that if their demands are not addressed, the agitation will be intensified.
Primary Demands of the Manch
The Manch has called for an immediate stay on the Tata Steel lease renewal process. They are demanding an investigation into all disputed lands based on the 1908 original Khatiyan and the restoration of land to those whose properties were wrongly categorized as government land in later surveys. Additionally, the group is seeking concrete rights for displaced persons regarding rehabilitation, employment, and sustainable livelihoods.
Prominent members present during the memorandum submission included Harmohan Mahato, Ashok Gop, Deepak Ranjit, Prahlad Gop, Tapan Panda, Sunil Hembram, Sarathi Das, and several others.
