Banjara Community Demands Uniform Scheduled Tribe Status Across India
World Banjara Day celebrations: Association seeks uniform ST status for Banjaras across country, submits memorandum to govt
The Indian Express
Image: The Indian Express
On World Banjara Day, the All India Banjara Seva Sangh, led by K G Vanzara, urged the Indian government to grant uniform Scheduled Tribe status to the Banjara community nationwide. The community currently faces varying classifications across states, impacting their rights and recognition.
- 01The Banjara community seeks uniform Scheduled Tribe status across India.
- 02Current classifications vary, affecting rights and recognition.
- 03Key demands include residential plots and caste certificates.
- 04Concerns about land grabbing and traditional occupations were raised.
- 05Social reforms and community welfare initiatives were discussed.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
The All India Banjara Seva Sangh (AIBSS), led by K G Vanzara, called for uniform Scheduled Tribe status for the Banjara community during World Banjara Day celebrations in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. Vanzara highlighted the inconsistent classifications of the Banjara people across different states, where they are sometimes categorized as Scheduled Castes, Other Backward Classes, or Nomadic Tribes. The community, which numbers around 20 lakh in Gujarat, submitted a memorandum to both the Central and Gujarat governments outlining their demands. Key issues discussed included the need for 100 square metre residential plots for the homeless, issuance of caste certificates, and protection against land grabbing. Vanzara emphasized the community's traditional occupation of sand mining and called for prioritizing their rights in lease allocations. The event also focused on social reforms, including reducing ritual expenses and promoting community welfare. A procession marked the celebrations, with notable community members being recognized for their contributions.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
The demand for uniform Scheduled Tribe status could enhance the rights and recognition of the Banjara community, potentially improving access to government benefits and protections against discrimination.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Reader Poll
Should the Banjara community be granted uniform Scheduled Tribe status across India?
Connecting to poll...
Read the original article
Visit the source for the complete story.




