Over 2,300 claims sent for approval after sustained agitation led by Sharm Jeevi Sangathan founder Vivek Pandit
Team ClarionÂ
BHIWANDI — After 12 days of relentless protest outside the Praant Office, tribal families in Bhiwandi taluka and Thane district achieved a major victory as the administration agreed to forward over 2,300 claims for forest land rights to the District Collector for approval.
The protest, led by Sharm Jeevi Sangathan founder Vivek Pandit, began on 3 February in response to the government’s failure to grant land rights under the Forest Rights Act (FRA). Hundreds of tribals camped day and night inside the Praant Office, demanding that their claims be processed.
On Friday, Vivek Pandit held a review meeting with Praant Officer Amit Sanp, the Tehsildar, the Group Development Officer, and representatives from the Forest Department. After assessing the progress made, he announced a temporary suspension of the protest.
“The Forest Rights Act has been in place for 18 years, but its proper implementation is still lacking,” Pandit remarked, expressing cautious optimism about the administration’s actions. He acknowledged the collaborative efforts of the Bhiwandi Sub-Divisional Office, the Tehsildar, the Panchayat Committee, and the Forest Department in reviewing the claims.
Pandit emphasised the need to differentiate between legitimate claims and new, unlawful requests. “Land rights should be granted to genuine beneficiaries before 2005, but new illegal claims must be thoroughly scrutinised,” he insisted. He also urged the Forest Department to prevent further encroachment on forest land.
Addressing the tribals, Pandit encouraged them to engage in agriculture and horticulture on their lands and to utilise the 256 agricultural schemes offered by the government. “These lands are not just for cultivation—they are crucial for preserving our environment,” he added.
The protest’s success was attributed to the tireless efforts of key activists, including Balaram Bhoyar, Ashok Sapte, Dattatreya Kolekar, Sunil Lone, and Mahendra Narguda, who remained on-site throughout the agitation.
While the protest has been temporarily suspended, Pandit warned that the movement would resume if the administration failed to deliver on its promises. “We are watching closely, and if necessary, we will return,” he concluded.
