Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren Urges Tribal Unity at Giridih Conference

Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren called for the strengthening of the tribal community during the concluding day of the Marang Buru Dhoromgad Mahasammelan in Giridih district. Speaking in the Santhali language at the Madhuban Police Station grounds in Pirtand, Mr. Soren stated that tribal society holds specific social rights that are recognized by the Indian Constitution. The two-day conference was organised by the Marang Buru Bachao Sangharsh Morcha and focused on Santhal religious tradition. Sarna followers and community representatives gathered from various parts of India, including Assam, Odisha, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, and West Bengal. MLA Kalpana Soren and Morcha Central President Fagu Besra were also present at the event. Mr. Soren noted that tribal society is the oldest in the country and highlighted that its roots remain strong while its branches have diversified. He explained that community members follow traditions like Sarna or identify as Hindu, and speak both tribal languages and Hindi. He also stressed that forests provide livelihoods and are regarded as divine by the community. According to Mr. Soren, collective participation and mutual cooperation are essential for the holistic development of the tribal society, and he assured them of all possible support. The Chief Minister pointed out that consumption of liquor is weakening the tribal community and harming individuals. He stated that the government has formed a strategy to address this issue through a collective awareness campaign, noting that the 'Phulo-Jhano Ashirwad Yojana' is being implemented in the state to curb the production and sale of Hadiya and illicit liquor. Additionally, he urged the youth to understand their traditions and customs and learn about their community's historical background.

Context

Marang Buru refers to the supreme deity in Santhal tradition, and protecting these traditional religious practices remains a central focus for tribal communities in the region. The state of Jharkhand has a large population of Sarna followers who worship nature and protect forests as part of their religion.