Tribal body wants Siramtoli ramp work to be suspended

Ranchi: The National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) on Tuesday directed the Jharkhand govt to immediately halt all construction and inauguration work on the Siramtoli Flyover ramp until a final decision is made, following sustained protests by a section of tribal communities.

The controversy centres around the ramp's alignment, which significantly restricts access to the Kendriya Sarna Sthal, tribal's religious site. A narrow 14-foot-wide gap has been left between the ramp and the Sarna ground, which tribal groups argue is insufficient for the scale of their religious processions and ceremonies.

The Kendriya Sarna Sthal, established in the 1960s by tribal leader Kartik Oraon, is a historic and spiritual site where thousands gather to celebrate Sarhul, one of Jharkhand's most important tribal festivals.

On April 4, the Kendriya Sarna Samiti and Chadri Sarna Samiti submitted a formal petition to the NCST demanding intervention. Responding to this, NCST member Asha Lakra conducted a site inspection on Tuesday along with commission officials and tribal representatives. "The Sarna Sthal is not an ordinary location but a cultural and spiritual heartbeat of Jharkhand's tribal communities. Under Article 338A (8), no construction activity is allowed when a case is under consideration by the commission," Asha said.

Angel Lakra, spokesperson of the Kendriya Sarna Samiti, highlighted the site's historical roots, "This sacred place was built in the 1960s by Kartik Oraon for Sarhul celebrations. It's not just land; it's a living piece of our heritage. Any obstruction here is deeply offensive."

Asha reiterated the Commission's stance, "Proceeding with construction despite the ongoing case is not just a legal violation; it's a direct affront to tribal religious sentiments. Until the investigation concludes, all activity must cease."

Bablu Munda, president of the Kendriya Sarna Samiti, criticised the state govt's handling of the matter, "Despite months of peaceful protests and petitions, the Hemant Soren-led 'Adivasi govt' has shown apathy. The ramp was built under police protection, brushing aside tribal concerns."

The Rs 340-crore, 2.3-km-long flyover project includes an elevated road and a cable-stayed bridge. While the govt touts it as a major infrastructure initiative, its clash with tribal religious rights has sparked a significant socio-political debate.