Bhopal- A comprehensive research project on Madhya Pradesh’s Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) has exposed the deplorable conditions faced by these communities. The study was conducted by Ankit Pachauri, Deputy Editor of The Mooknayak, under the guidance of senior journalist and author Rajesh Badal.

The 124-page field study report provides an in-depth analysis of the severe problems faced by three major tribes—Sahariya, Baiga, and Bharia—and how they are being deprived of their constitutional rights. The report raises serious questions about the state government’s policies and their actual impact on the ground.

Key Findings of the Report

Economic and Social Backwardness

According to the report, the PVTGs like Sahariya, Baiga, and Bharia are extremely backward, both economically and socially. There is a glaring absence of constitutional values in their everyday lives. While crucial constitutional provisions like Article 14 (Right to Equality) and Article 21 (Right to Life and Personal Liberty) are theoretically applicable to these tribes, they are far from being implemented in reality.

Educational Backwardness

The report highlights the lack of education as the biggest problem faced by these communities. Education is the only path that can make these tribes aware of their constitutional rights. However, due to the use of regional languages and dialects, tribal children face significant difficulties in accessing education. Government educational programs are not fully reaching these communities, which prevents them from benefiting from their constitutional rights.

Lack of Healthcare Services

Despite constitutional rights, PVTGs do not receive adequate healthcare services. Government schemes like Janani Suraksha Yojana and Ayushman Bharat Yojana benefit these communities only to a limited extent. The reasons include a lack of awareness and the remote locations of these tribes.

Livelihood and Forest Rights

The livelihoods of these tribes are primarily dependent on forests. However, in the name of forest conservation, their traditional rights are being violated. Under the Forest Rights Act, 2006, they should have rights over the forests, but this is not being enforced at the ground level. This not only violates Article 19 (Right to Personal Freedom) but also Article 21, which ensures the right to a dignified life.

Neglect by Constitutional and Government Bodies

Article 46 of the Constitution emphasizes the protection of the educational and economic interests of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. Despite this, these tribes are yet to fully benefit from government schemes. The report also questions the role of the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (Article 338A), highlighting that its recommendations are not being properly implemented. Additionally, no appointments have been made in the Madhya Pradesh State Commission for Scheduled Tribes in the past three years, further exacerbating the problems faced by these communities.

Future Challenges and Solutions

According to Ankit Pachauri’s ground study report, the government and society must work together to take concrete steps in education, healthcare, and livelihood sectors for PVTGs. Constitutional rights for these tribes should not remain confined to paper but must be implemented on the ground so that these communities can be integrated into the mainstream of society.

The report reveals a severe lack of basic amenities and constitutional rights in tribal communities. Pachauri asserts that the reality on the ground is far worse than it appears from the outside. The tribal society remains far removed from the mainstream and is among the most backward sections of the country.

Constitution and Tribal Life

In his study, Pachauri acknowledges the guidance of senior journalist and author Rajesh Badal in understanding the complexities of this fieldwork. He also highlights the influence of Sachin Jain’s book "Jeevan Mein Samvidhan," published by Vikas Samvad, which provided him with a deeper understanding of constitutional rights in tribal life and the importance of constitutional values in his own life.

This research underscores the urgent need for government intervention and systemic change to ensure that PVTGs in Madhya Pradesh receive the rights and opportunities guaranteed to them under the Constitution. The report calls for immediate action to uplift these vulnerable communities, safeguard their rights, and prevent the erosion of their unique identities.