Sensing extreme unease in the tribal communities across India, accentuated by the mindless violence in Manipur, the Congress has decided to express solidarity with them by celebrating “Adivasi Gaurav Parva” on August 9.

Instructions have been sent to all state units to hold elaborate programmes on that day.

In a letter written to all Pradesh Congress Committees (PCCs), the general secretary in charge of the organisation K.C. Venugopal said: “On the occasion of the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples, on August 9, 2023, the Indian National Congress wishes to express the party’s immense admiration for our Adivasi communities and support them in their fight against the consistent erosion of their rights and identity over the past nine years.”

The Narendra Modi government has diluted the Forest Rights Acts despite protests by tribals.

Venugopal said: “We are all witness to how the present BJP regime is insulting, humiliating and harassing the tribal communities, and also depriving them of their legitimate rights. It has been the Congress party which is consistently standing by them and raising their voice at various forums.”

Asking all the state units to organise the Adivasi Gaurav Parv on August 9, Venugopal said: “This event should honour the rich cultural heritage of our tribal brothers and sisters as well as act as an opportunity to appreciate their role as the torch-bearers of a sustainable world. All the leaders and workers of the party, along with our Adivasi brothers and sisters, should also reiterate our commitment to the cause of an equitable and just society.”

The programme suggested for the festival includes an Adivasi Gaurav Mahasabha at a place in the state, which is traditionally or historically important to the Adivasis. A mega rally will be organised by the PCC to highlight the Congress’s contributions towards the betterment of Adivasis and “bring to the fore the BJP’s inhuman atrocities and failures towards Adivasi welfare”. The programme also includes the formation of a State Adivasi Forum wherein the PCC will “host the Adivasi Intellectuals’ Forum Conference to engage with thinkers, academicians, activists and students from Adivasi communities”.

The party workers will take a pledge called “Sanrakshan Pratigya”, which will renew their commitment to stand with the tribals.

In Assembly constituencies, meetings and conferences will be organised for the tribals to demonstrate the inclusive politics of the Congress and the commitment to preserve the country’s cultural diversity. Cultural events will be organised with local influencers to showcase the unique traditions, music, dance, and arts of the Adivasi communities residing in the state.

The central leadership also suggested community dinners as a gesture of goodwill where members of the community can participate and engage in meaningful dialogue. A “Mashaal Yatra” (candle-light protest march) will also be taken out at night to highlight the fight for Adivasi rights.