Srinagar: Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs Javed Ahmed Rana on Saturday chaired a meeting to review implementation of the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006, in Jammu and Kashmir.
The Minister reviewed the status of claims filed under the Forest Rights Act (FRA), functioning of committees constituted under the Act and measures being taken for safeguarding the rights of tribal communities.
Emphasising the need for wider public outreach, Javed Rana directed officials to intensify awareness campaigns among tribal communities regarding the provisions of the Forest Rights Act and the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989.
He said eligible beneficiaries should be made fully aware of their legal and constitutional rights so that they can avail the benefits guaranteed under law.
The Minister also reviewed nomination of members to Block, District and UT-level committees constituted under the Act and stressed timely nomination and effective functioning of these committees to ensure prompt disposal of claims and transparent implementation of the legislation.
During the meeting, Rana directed that all unattended claims be examined on priority and appropriate action be taken strictly in accordance with law.
“The basic rights of tribal communities cannot be snatched and every action must remain within the framework of law and justice,” the Minister said, reiterating the government’s commitment towards safeguarding the rights and dignity of Scheduled Tribes and other traditional forest dwellers.
The meeting was informed that Forest Rights Committees have largely been constituted across the Union Territory and the implementation process is underway in different districts.
The Minister further directed that any step regarding eviction, wherever required, must strictly follow due legal procedure and the guidelines laid down by the Supreme Court of India.
The meeting was attended by senior officers including Commissioner Secretary Forest, Ecology and Environment, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, Secretary Tribal Affairs Department, Director Tribal Affairs J&K, Chief Conservator of Forests Jammu and Kashmir and Director Tribal Research Institute J&K.