YSRCP Delegation Meets Union Home Minister
The movement for the protection of tribal rights in Andhra Pradesh has gained momentum. Following the massive “Manyam Garjana” public meeting held at Paderu, a delegation of YSRCP Members of Parliament, led by Araku MP Dr. Gumma Tanuja Rani, met Union Home Minister Amit Shah and submitted a memorandum seeking immediate legal measures to safeguard the constitutional rights of tribal communities.
The MPs urged the Central Government to introduce a legally sustainable alternative to the erstwhile GO No. 3, ensuring that tribal communities do not lose their educational and employment opportunities. They also requested the Centre to strengthen the implementation of the Andhra Pradesh Scheduled Areas Land Transfer Regulation (1/70 Act) to protect tribal land rights.
Demand for Legal Safeguards on Education and Employment
The delegation stressed that any alternative framework should preserve reservation benefits for tribal candidates in education and government employment. They appealed to the Centre to conduct a comprehensive review of the situation in tribal regions and take constitutional measures to safeguard the rights guaranteed to Scheduled Tribes.
Historical Background of GO No. 3
Dr. Gumma Tanuja Rani explained the historical context of the issue to the Union Home Minister. She recalled that in 1986, a policy was introduced to provide reservation for tribal candidates in teacher posts within Scheduled Agency areas. This policy was later implemented through GO No. 3, which aimed to ensure local tribal representation in schools.
However, the Supreme Court subsequently struck down GO No. 3, leading to concerns over the future of reservation benefits for tribal communities in agency areas.
Concerns Over the 1/70 Act
The MPs also raised concerns regarding recent discussions on possible amendments to the 1/70 Land Transfer Regulation and the pending petitions before the Supreme Court. They stated that these developments have created uncertainty among tribal communities regarding the protection of their land rights.
The delegation urged the Centre to ensure that any legal developments do not weaken the safeguards protecting tribal lands from alienation.
Tribal Organisations Criticise Government
Meanwhile, several tribal organisations have criticised the government for not fulfilling its election promise to restore GO No. 3. They argue that the delay in bringing a legal alternative has created uncertainty over educational and employment opportunities for tribal youth.
The organisations have demanded that both the Central and State Governments take immediate steps to enact a constitutionally valid mechanism that safeguards tribal rights while complying with judicial rulings.
