PISA Act Protects Tribal Self-Governance and Rights – Minister Seethakka

Minister Seethakka said that the PESA Act is a symbol of the self-respect of the tribals. She wanted to strengthen the Gram Sabhas and protect the tribal rights. On Wednesday, the minister inaugurated a two-day state-level workshop on the implementation of the PESA Act in Rajendranagar and addressed the gathering. He said that officials and public representatives need to have complete understanding of the PISA Act. He revealed that PESA is not just a law. It is a protective shield for the self-determination of the tribals. The minister said that villages are the pillars of the country. Gram Sabhas are the cornerstone of democracy. She said that the PESA Act has given the decision-making power to the Gram Sabhas over natural resources. She said that illegal activities are continuing in some areas despite the law. She said that natural resources should not go into the hands of corporates, ignoring the opinions of the local people and justice will be done to the tribals only when the spirit of the PESA Act is understood and implemented. He suggested that sarpanches should play a key role in village development decisions