Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Tuesday assured the Assembly that the government would clear the remaining 6,906 Forest Right claims by 31st March 2026. The assurance came after Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao raised concerns over the prolonged delay and urged the government to deliver justice to affected communities.
Alemao criticised the slow pace of the process, stating, “The department’s long-term vision for the tribal community may sound promising, but on the ground, it remains symbolic rather than substantive.” He pointed out that of the 10,346 Forest Right claims submitted, only 2,398 had been approved, while 1,039 were rejected and 6,906 were still pending.
He also slammed the reasons cited for the delay—such as monsoon, wild bushes, and leech-infested areas, calling them a “bureaucratic farce” that merely prolongs justice.
Alemao further criticised the lack of political will in addressing key issues of the Scheduled Tribes, including the long-standing demand for political reservation, which he said was being passed between the State and Centre without any concrete outcome.