In a significant move to protect tribal rights, the Joint Action Committee (JAC), comprising various tribal organizations and political parties, has declared a 48-hour 'Manyam Bandh' on February 11 and 12, 2025. This bandh is a direct response to recent remarks by Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly Speaker, Ch. Ayyanna Patrudu, suggesting amendments to the Land Transfer Regulation Act 1 of 1970, commonly known as the 1/70 Act. 

The 1/70 Act is a pivotal piece of legislation designed to safeguard tribal interests by prohibiting the transfer of tribal land to non-tribals. Its primary objective is to ensure that tribal communities retain control over their ancestral lands, thereby preserving their culture, livelihood, and rights.

Speaker's Controversial Remarks

During a recent Regional Tourism Investors Meet in Visakhapatnam, Speaker Ayyanna Patrudu highlighted the untapped tourism potential in regions like Araku and Lammasingi, both known for their scenic beauty and tribal heritage. He emphasized that these areas could attract more tourists if amenities such as resorts and boarding facilities were enhanced. To facilitate private investments in these tribal regions, he proposed amendments to the 1/70 Act, noting that current provisions restrict non-tribals from investing in these areas. 

JAC's Firm Opposition

The JAC has expressed strong opposition to the proposed amendments, arguing that altering the 1/70 Act would open the door for non-tribal entities to acquire land in tribal regions, thereby threatening the livelihoods and rights of indigenous communities. They contend that such changes could lead to the displacement of tribals and the erosion of their cultural heritage.

In a statement, JAC leaders demanded an immediate apology from Speaker Ayyanna Patrudu for his remarks. They reiterated the importance of the 1/70 Act in preventing the alienation of tribal lands and emphasized that any dilution of this law would be detrimental to tribal welfare. 

Call for 'Manyam Bandh'

To protest the proposed amendments and raise awareness about the potential implications for tribal communities, the JAC has called for a 48-hour 'Manyam Bandh' on February 11 and 12. The term 'Manyam' refers to forested or tribal areas, underscoring the focus of the bandh on regions predominantly inhabited by tribal populations.

The JAC has urged all tribal communities and supporters across Andhra Pradesh to participate in the bandh, emphasizing the need for unity in safeguarding tribal rights. They have also called upon the state government to reaffirm its commitment to tribal welfare by rejecting any proposals to amend the 1/70 Act.

Broader Implications

This development highlights the ongoing tension between development initiatives and the preservation of indigenous rights. While the promotion of tourism can lead to economic growth, it is essential to balance such endeavors with the rights and traditions of tribal communities. The proposed amendments to the 1/70 Act have ignited a broader debate on how to achieve sustainable development without compromising the interests of marginalized groups.