VP flags conversion of tribal communities

Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar on Saturday expressed concern over “religious conversion” of people belonging to tribal communities.

Addressing a gathering at Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram Vidhyalay Prangan, Kotra, in Udaipur, Dhankhar said, “Conspiratorial attempts to lure and change the beliefs of tribal communities are taking place. I consider it a malicious attempt. By speaking smooth words, posing as well-wishers, tempting us and luring us, efforts are being made to change our faith.”

“Our cultural heritage is our foundation. If the foundation shakes, no building is safe. The process of luring and attracting, which I see being carried out in a planned and conspiratorial manner in the country, needs to be controlled,” he said.

Dhankhar, who was the chief guest at a function organised to pay tribute to Birsa Munda on the 150th birth anniversary of the Santhal hero, said, “Bhagwan Birsa Munda did the unimaginable for the country’s freedom, for the tribes, for the soil. He was the one who told us, ‘jal, jangal, zameen’ (water, forest and land) — are not just words, they are a way of life.”

The Vice-President said these words underscored the importance of sustainable living and respect for environment.

“The tribal community is one that does not take even a grain more than it needs. The tribals teach us what the environmental conservation is, what indigenous life means, what family signifies, and what the duty of a person is,” Dhankhar said.

He said President Droupadi Murmu was a symbol of tribal pride. He called it a testament to the inclusivity and diversity of Indian democracy. Lauding PM Modi for turning the spotlight on the contribution made to the freedom struggle by tribal heroes, Dhankhar said under his vision, the practice to celebrate November 15, birth anniversary of Birsa Munda, as National Tribal Day was started.