NLU Tripura hosts workshop on forest rights, legal safeguards, and tribal governance, highlighting implementation gaps, community awareness challenges, and policy reforms under Forest Rights Act, 2006, with participation from legal experts, tribal leaders, and government officials.
A two-day academic engagement focusing on forest rights, legal safeguards, and tribal governance concluded at National Law University Tripura, bringing together legal experts, policymakers, scholars, and tribal representatives to deliberate on pressing issues affecting indigenous communities.
Organised by the Centre for Tribal Studies and Social Justice, the workshop was held on April 25 and 26, aiming to bridge knowledge gaps and strengthen awareness regarding the implementation of protective laws for tribal populations. Officials highlighted that the initiative sought to encourage dialogue between legal institutions and grassroots stakeholders.
The inaugural session featured former Tripura High Court judge Justice U.B. Saha as the chief guest. He was joined by Tribal Welfare Department Director Subhasis Das and TR&CI Deputy Director Ruma Rudra Paul. Addressing the gathering, Justice Saha emphasized that welfare-oriented legislation often falls short of its objectives due to inadequate implementation and limited awareness among intended beneficiaries. He pointed out that colonial-era legal structures continue to influence governance systems, creating persistent gaps in access to land and resources for tribal communities.
Subhasis Das, in his address, described the Forest Rights Act, 2006, as a progressive legal framework designed to empower forest-dwelling communities. However, he acknowledged that challenges remain in its execution, particularly in recognising community rights. Procedural complexities and insufficient awareness, he noted, prevent many eligible individuals and groups from claiming their lawful entitlements.
NLU Tripura Founding Vice-Chancellor Yogesh Pratap Singh, during his welcome address, reiterated the significance of the Forest Rights Act as a corrective measure for historical injustices. He stressed the importance of ensuring effective implementation while maintaining a balance with constitutional provisions and governance structures.
Over the course of the workshop, multiple sessions explored critical aspects of the Forest Rights Act, including its provisions, implementation hurdles, and the broader constitutional safeguards available to tribal populations. Discussions also covered various government schemes and examined the structure and functioning of the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council.
The event saw active participation from tribal leaders nominated by the Tribal Welfare Department, along with youth representatives from different districts. Students, researchers, and scholars from various institutions across the state also contributed to the discussions, reflecting a diverse and inclusive engagement.
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The valedictory session was attended by Pranajit Bhowmik, Deputy Conservator of Forests (Protection), Tripura Forest Department, who served as the chief guest. The workshop concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by faculty coordinator Merelin Darlong, acknowledging the contributions of all participants and stakeholders.
Officials noted that such initiatives play a crucial role in strengthening awareness, promoting legal literacy, and ensuring that the benefits of protective legislation reach tribal communities effectively. The workshop is expected to contribute to more informed policy discussions and improved implementation strategies in the future.
