The study reveals that the Forest Rights Act (FRA) of 2006, meant to correct historical injustices against tribal communities and traditional forest dwellers, is not being effectively implemented in Chhattisgarh, particularly in the villages of Rawas and Banspattar in Kanker district. Despite filing claims over a decade ago, most families are still waiting for their land rights to be recognized. Out of hundreds of claims, only 38 families have been granted land titles. Worse, no Community Forest Rights (CFR) claims have been approved, leaving villagers without formal control over the forest resources they depend on for their livelihoods.
The FRA was designed to give tribal communities and other forest dwellers rights over the land they’ve lived on and cultivated for generations. It aimed to empower them with legal rights to their land and forest produce, which are essential for their survival and cultural practices. However, this study shows that the reality on the ground is very different. Claims are being rejected or ignored without proper explanation, and the authorities, particularly the Sub Division Level Committee (SDLC) and District Level Committee (DLC), are failing to provide feedback or guidance.
The problem is worsened by incomplete claim applications, lack of essential documents like maps, and poor communication between government agencies and villagers. Local organizations like Parivartan Samaj Sevi Sanstha have tried to help, but their efforts are not enough to overcome the bureaucratic hurdles.
The report calls for better coordination between villagers and authorities, easier access to necessary documents, and stronger use of the legal mechanisms provided by the FRA. Ensuring that forest rights are recognized and protected is critical for the livelihoods and well-being of tribal communities who rely on the forest for their everyday survival.
Keywords: Forest Rights Act (FRA), Chhattisgarh, Individual Forest Rights (IFR), Community Forest Rights (CFR), Gram Panchayat, Tribal Communities, Land Rights, Forest Produce, SDLC (Sub Division Level Committee), Livelihood, Kanker
Implementation of the Forest Right Act, 2006 in Chhattisgarh A Case Study of Rawas and Banspattar Gram Panchayat, Kanker
Send download link to:
