The Hitharakshana Samiti, representing forest dwellers within the Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary (BWS), has called for a significant public gathering to voice strong opposition against a proposed government relocation plan. The meeting is scheduled for Tuesday at Hemmadga.
Villagers Allege Devious Plan, Seek Basic Amenities
The committee has made a fervent appeal to all citizens of Khanapur taluk to attend the Hemmadga meeting in large numbers. They have raised a serious allegation, stating that a devious plan is being crafted to persuade villagers to abandon their ancestral homes through offers of monetary incentives. The Samiti finds this approach unjust, especially given the historical and cultural significance of the land.
They emphasized that the soil is sanctified by the footsteps of revered figures like Lord Ram, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, Chhatrapati Rajaram Maharaj, and Sangolli Rayanna. Instead of focusing on relocation, the villagers have consistently petitioned local authorities, including the tahsildar, district administration, and the forest department, for the provision of fundamental facilities.
Decades After Independence, Deprivation Continues
The core demand of the forest communities revolves around essential infrastructure and services that are commonplace elsewhere in the country. Their petitions have specifically requested proper roads, reliable drinking water, electricity, healthcare facilities, and ambulance services.
The committee pointed out the stark contrast between national progress and local neglect. They noted that while India has completed 78 years of independence and most villages across the nation enjoy basic amenities, thousands of forest dwellers in Khanapur taluk continue to live without these fundamental rights. The administration's push for relocation, rather than addressing these critical needs, has become a major point of contention.
A Call to Protect Culture and Secure Justice
The upcoming public meeting at Hemmadga is framed as a crucial step in the community's struggle. The Hitharakshana Samiti's appeal to the villagers is both a rallying cry and a statement of purpose. "Let us protect our culture, traditions, and existence. Let us secure justice and ensure essential facilities for our forest communities," the Samiti stated.
This gathering aims to demonstrate unified resistance against the relocation proposal and to reinforce the demand for sustainable development within their homeland. The outcome of this meeting could significantly influence the next steps in the ongoing dialogue between the forest dwellers and the government authorities.
