Tribal leader Lila Vasava threatens self-immolation for forest land rights

The dispute over forest land cultivation and land titles has escalated in Sagbara, Narmada district. Tribal leader Lila Vasava has issued a warning of self-immolation, demanding that tribal farmers be granted rights over forest land. He has demanded that the government and the administration ensure all farmers are provided with their land titles by 15 November.

According to a report by TV9 Gujarati, Vasava clarified that they are ready to accept the resolution if the forest department settles the issue of land rights and provides the farmers with their rights in writing. However, he warned that if justice is not served, they will resort to self-immolation on 15 November. As these issues have remained unresolved for a long time, there is significant resentment among local farmers and tribal leaders.

Regarding this matter, Gujarat Pradesh Congress General Secretary Sandeep Mangrolia has raised questions against the government's policy. He stated that on 12 November, tribal farmers will gather at the Mandvi TSP office to submit a representation to the officials. Preliminary discussions have been held with farmers in Khopi village, and a decision has been taken there to submit land-related claims. Mangrolia further added that if no solution is reached after the representation, this movement will not be limited to only 12 villages but could spread across the entire eastern belt of Gujarat.