Congress Leader Accuses BJP of Undermining Tribal Identity

Allegations Against BJP

On Tuesday, senior Congress leader Digvijay Singh accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of attempting to erase the identity of tribal communities by labeling them as 'vanvasi' or forest dwellers.

Speaking at a three-day camp focused on tribal rights and empowerment organized by the Tribal Congress in Bhainsdehi, the former Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh emphasized that the indigenous population of India has always been the tribal communities.

In a conversation with reporters, he stated, 'We all originated from Central Asia. The true rights and primary entitlements belong to the tribals. They worship nature, and the Constitution grants them the full right to practice their faith, so what is there to criticize?'

Criticism of BJP's Ideology

Singh further accused the BJP of engaging in politics of conversion, asserting that their ideology is entirely narrow-minded. He remarked that the party neither comprehends the Constitution nor respects India's genuine traditions.

He clarified that the BJP aims to diminish the identity of tribals by referring to them as forest dwellers. Singh added that conversion, if it occurs out of faith and free will, is not a crime, but forced or incentivized conversion is unacceptable. He claimed that the BJP raises this issue solely for political gain.

Political Commentary on Cow Protection

In response to a question, he noted that the BJP merely engages in politics under the guise of cow protection, while the Congress government had established a cow commission. He criticized the BJP for only seeking political advantage.

During the event, Vikrant Bhuria, president of the Tribal Congress, mentioned that Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, has tasked the Tribal Congress with nurturing young tribal leadership across the nation.

Empowerment Initiatives

Bhuria stated that they conduct tribal rights and empowerment camps in every district to ensure that the younger generation understands what Congress has accomplished for the country, the rights of tribals, and the exploitation they face.

Singh also addressed the tribal youth participating in the camp, where he was seen sitting among ordinary workers, emphasizing the importance of such events in bringing new leaders to the forefront within the Congress party.