Several activists and representatives from various civil society organizations and people’s movements from 15 states, working on the issue of land rights, came together in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, on April 14-15 for a national-level consultation on land rights. Organized by Jan Pahel and ActionAid Association, the meeting witnessed rich discussions on the question of land rights to Dalits, tribal communities and women, in addition to the issues of displacement and migration. Nearly 80 people participated in this consultation.

Following intense deliberations, the participants unanimously agreed on the need of bringing the issue of land reforms on to the agenda of national as well as state governments. It was strongly felt that this step would be important to ensure land rights of the landless. In addition, there were discussions on the need for effective implementation of Forest Rights Act to protect the rights of tribal people and other forest-dweller communities. Besides, a strong need was felt to protect and promote the land rights of women.

Towards the end of the meeting, it was decided that the efforts on this front will be continued through meetings and consultations at the state level as well as at the grassroots. The importance of building youth leadership to mobilize communities and energize the struggle was also strongly expressed. Click here to read more.