Thousands of tribals and other forest dwellers gathered at Piparia in Hoshangabad district in Madhya Pradesh to protest against their proposed displacement from the Satpura National Park, Bori Wildlife Sanctuary and Panchmarhi Wildlife Sanctuary. They argue that such a displacement is an attack on their livelihood and beliefs. Government claims that their displacement is essential for the development of the area and for protection of wildlife. Write a petition on behalf of the forest dwellers to the NHRC, a response from the government and a report of the NHRC on this matter.

Petition on behalf of the forest dwellers to NHRC:

Sir,

We have lived in these forests for generations and have direct cultural links to them. It is a part of our being as we worship trees, mountains and rivers as deities. Our livelihood too depends directly on it as most of us are occupied by making, selling and dealing in articles that we get from the forest. This means that if we will be unrooted from the forests then our whole existence would come in crisis. Please look at these concerns with empathy.

Response from the government and the report of NHRC on this matter:

The constant existence of humans and their encroachment in the wild has led to several complications to the wildlife. This has also increased animal-human confrontations which has led to casualties on both sides. Thus, it is important for the displacement of the tribals for their as well as the animals’ protection. Also, the government is planning several development programs for the tribals and it would be possible to get along with these plans only if the tribals are moved from the forests.