New Delhi, May 25, 2026: Lakhs of members from various tribal communities across India gathered at the historic Red Fort grounds on Sunday, demanding the removal of converted tribals from the Scheduled Tribes (ST) category.
The event, titled ‘Janajati Sanskritik Samagam’, was organised by the Janajati Suraksha Manch and several allied groups. It was held in connection with the 150th birth anniversary year of legendary tribal icon Birsa Munda. Participants, dressed in traditional tribal attire, performed folk dances and showcased their cultural heritage while pressing for long-pending demands related to tribal identity and protections.
Core Demand
The central demand of the gathering was the de-listing of tribals who have converted to Christianity or Islam from the Scheduled Tribes list. Organisers argued that constitutional benefits and safeguards provided under Article 342 should be reserved exclusively for those who continue to practice indigenous tribal customs, traditions, and religions. They emphasised that religious conversion poses a serious threat to the distinct cultural identity of India’s tribal communities.
This issue has been raised periodically since the late 1960s, notably by tribal leader and former MP Kartik Oraon. The Janajati Suraksha Manch, formed in 2006, has been consistently advocating for this position.
Massive Participation
Reports suggest that nearly 1.5 lakh people from over 500 tribal communities participated in the programme. The large turnout has been described by organisers as one of the biggest tribal mobilisations in recent decades.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah attended the event as the chief guest. In his address, Shah assured the gathering that the proposed Uniform Civil Code (UCC) would not undermine tribal identity and rights, while reiterating the government’s commitment to protecting tribal culture and interests.
Significance and Reactions
The event has sparked intense debate on issues of religious conversion, tribal identity, and reservation policies. Supporters view it as a crucial step towards preserving the original character and rights of indigenous tribal communities. However, some Christian organisations and activists have criticised the demand, calling it discriminatory and an attempt to deprive converted tribals of their hard-earned welfare benefits and constitutional protections.
The gathering highlights the growing assertion of tribal groups in India, particularly in states with significant tribal populations, and brings renewed focus on the complex intersection of religion, culture, and affirmative action policies.
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