“DONGRIA KONDHS PRIORITISE CLEARING NAXAL CASES BEFORE VOTING.”

Why in the news?

“Dongria Kondh tribe in Odisha faces legal battles, false accusations; prioritises clearing names from Naxal cases ahead of elections.”

source:wordpress

About the Legal Issues and Allegations:

  • Dongria Kondh tribals in Odisha face legal troubles and accusations of Naxal affiliations by authorities.
  • Several community members have been detained and charged with sedition, leading to frustration and boycotts of elections.
  • Many Dongria Kondhs deny any connection to CPI (Maoist) and express discontent over false accusations affecting their livelihoods.
  • The community’s steadfast resistance against bauxite mining in Niyamgiri hills has led to environmental victories but resulted in legal burdens.
About Dongria Kondh tribals in Odisha :

  • Indigenous tribe residing in Niyamgiri hills of Odisha.
  • Worship Niyam Raja, the mountain God.
  • Communicate in Kui language, primarily oral.
  • Subsistence farming and forest resource sustenance.
  • Spread across villages in Niyamgiri hills.

Dongria Kondh Movement:

  • Known as Dangaria Kandha.
  • Engaged in movements for preservation of their land and culture.