Call for mainstreaming aboriginals in society

Speakers at a discussion here on Wednesday underlined the need for a concerted effort to bring the aboriginal people to the mainstream of society for their substantial welfare.
They said importance should be given to protecting the ethnic community people from all sorts of repression and oppression by the surrounding opportunists for their peaceful survival.
Aboriginal Village Society Organisation (AVSO) and Centre for Capacity Building of Voluntary Organisation (CCBVO) organised the meeting at Beldanga AVSO office under Godagari upazila in observance of the 110th death anniversary of Great Birsha Munda, who died in jail custody on June 9 in 1900.
A large number of male and female of ethnic communities attended the meeting paying rich tribute to the great aboriginal leader.
Chaired by AVSO leader Mohesh Marandi, the meeting was addressed by aboriginal leader Everest Hembrom, former deputy director of social service department Mozammel Haque, CCBVO Secretary Sarwar-E-Kamal and aboriginals Niranjan Kujur, Sudakkhan Toppo, Jharulal Rajwar and Sabina Khalco.
The speakers called for undertaking an effective step to make the aboriginal people competent in all aspects especially literacy and social empowerment so that they could ensure their welfare.
Stressing the need for protecting the rights of the tribal community people, they said importance should be given to protecting the underprivileged people from all sorts of deceptions by the surrounding privileged and muscle powers.
Besides, they said the cultural heritage of the aboriginal communities must be protected from any aggression.
“The culture of the aboriginals is our heritage and integral part of our life, so it is our responsibility to protect it,” said Mozammel, adding that we were with the aboriginals in the past and we will remain with them in future.
Terming them very hardworking, he said the aboriginal people have been playing a vital role in increasing farm production. So, he said a holistic village-based community development approach has become indispensable for their welfare.