Tribal Rights on the Brink: Supreme Court Hearing Sparks Outcry

Over 100 tribal rights groups urge government to defend the Forest Rights Act at a Supreme Court hearing challenging its constitutionality. The law, created for tribal empowerment, faces threats of eviction orders, affecting millions. State and central governments are called to ensure justice for forest dwellers.

More than 100 tribal and forest dwellers' rights organizations on Thursday called on central and state governments to uphold the Forest Rights Act (FRA) amidst a pivotal Supreme Court case.

The case, 'Wildlife First and Ors vs Union of India and Ors,' could see millions evicted if the courts rule against the FRA, prompting widespread concern among rights groups.

The organisations stress that the law was established to rectify historical injustices by recognizing tribal land rights, but violations persist despite legal protections.

(With inputs from agencies.)