Hyderabad: World Tribal Day celebrations drew large crowds in Aswaraopeta, where Minister Dhanasari Anasuya Seethakka unveiled a statue of tribal freedom fighter Komaram Bheem.
Seethakka joined Aswaraopeta MLA Jare Adinarayana at the celebrations. A large rally followed the statue unveiling, with participants raising slogans of “Jai Adivasi”.
Addressing the gathering, Seethakka said tribal history reflected generations of struggles for rights, freedom, equality and self-respect.
She recalled the contributions of tribal leaders including Sammakka-Sarakka, Birsa Munda, Ramji Gond and Komaram Bheem. These leaders fought for the rights and dignity of tribal communities, she said.
The Constitution provides special safeguards to protect tribal rights, Seethakka said. She added that implementing those safeguards remained the government’s responsibility.
World Tribal Day highlights tribal rights and cultural identity
Seethakka said the struggle to protect tribal rights did not oppose other communities. Instead, she urged tribal people to move forward with others in a spirit of brotherhood while securing their constitutional rights.
The government was working specifically on development in tribal areas, she said. Its efforts also covered housing, employment and rights over forests.
Seethakka said the public government led by Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, Deputy Chief Minister Bhatti Vikramarka and Minister Ponguleti Srinivas Reddy had prioritised tribal welfare.
She stressed the importance of protecting tribal languages, culture, traditions and traditional attire. These elements represented the identity of tribal communities, she said.
Drawing inspiration from Komaram Bheem, Seethakka urged tribal communities to work towards development, self-respect and protection of their rights.
As part of her visit, the minister also visited the Mahila Samakhya building in Aswaraopeta. She later participated in housewarming ceremonies under the Indiramma housing programme.