Synopsis
Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu assured tribal communities that the 1/70 Act will not be repealed amid protests against remarks from Assembly Speaker Ayyanna Patrudu. The Act protects tribal lands and rights from non-tribal transfer.Key Takeaways
- CM Naidu confirms no repeal of 1/70 Act.
- Protests organized by Joint Action Committee.
- 1/70 Act protects tribal lands from non-tribal ownership.
- Efforts to improve tribal education and welfare ongoing.
- Speaker's remarks led to demands for an apology.
Amaravati, Feb 11 (NationPress) In response to protests initiated by tribal organizations regarding comments made by Andhra Pradesh Assembly Speaker Ayyanna Patrudu, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu affirmed on Tuesday that his administration has no plans to revoke the 1/70 Act.
The Joint Action Committee (JAC), comprising various tribal factions and political entities, has organized a 48-hour bandh in tribal regions to protest against the Speaker's suggestion of amending the 1/70 Act to attract investments in tourism within tribal areas.
In a statement, the Chief Minister emphasized the government's dedication to safeguarding tribal rights and reiterated that there are no intentions to modify the legislation.
The Land Transfer Regulation Act 1 of 1970, commonly referred to as the 1/70 Act, prohibits the transfer of tribal land to non-tribals, thereby protecting the rights of tribal communities.
"We strongly believe that preserving tribal communities equates to preserving Indian culture. This is why we continually strive to enhance their education, healthcare, and overall living conditions. We have initiated special programs aimed at the development and welfare of tribal populations, including efforts to gain international recognition for tribal products like Araku coffee," stated CM Naidu.
The Chief Minister noted that during the unified Andhra Pradesh era, he implemented Government Order Number 3 to ensure that only tribals were appointed as teachers in tribal regions. He mentioned that this order was revoked due to legal issues stemming from the previous administration's negligence. He assured tribal communities that efforts would be made to reinstate the order.
"We have no intention of modifying the 1/70 Act, which was established to ensure that only tribals have rights over properties in tribal regions," he asserted, urging tribal members not to fall for misleading propaganda.
During a recent meeting with tourism investors in Visakhapatnam, Speaker Ayyanna Patrudu advocated for amending the 1/70 Act to enhance investments in the tourism sector within tribal territories. He pointed out that the Visakhapatnam area possesses substantial tourism potential but noted that improvements are needed.
The JAC of tribal organizations demanded an apology from the Speaker regarding his comments. JAC leaders claimed that the Speaker's suggestions could infringe upon the Act, expressing concerns that such actions might jeopardize the livelihoods and rights of tribal people.
To protest against the Speaker's statements, the JAC has called for a 48-hour 'Manyam bandh' on February 11 and 12, which is being observed in tribal regions of northern Andhra.
