Rahul Gandhi Says Tribals Are The 'Original Owners' Of India, Pitches For Calling Them 'Adivasi' Over 'Vanvasi'

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi recently visited Wayanad, his Lok Sabha constituency, where he emphasised the importance of tribal rights. During his speech, Rahul referred to Adivasis as the "original owners" of the country and called for them to be granted rights over land and forests.

Rahul also criticised the use of the term "vanvasi," stating that it had a distorted logic behind it.

During his two-day visit to Wayanad, Rahul inaugurated a power facility at a cancer center. Speaking at the launch, he reiterated the importance of recognising the word "Adivasi" and the implications it carries. Rahul emphasised that tribal communities should be allowed the freedom to pursue their aspirations and desires within the land and forests they rightfully own.

He said that as the "original owners of the land," these people should have the opportunity for their children to pursue various professions and have access to resources such as education, land rights, and forest produce.

He criticised the term "vanvasi" claiming that it denies the people's rightful claim as the original owners of India and confines them to the jungle. This word distorts their history, traditions, and their connection to the country. Instead, they should be recognised as 'Adivasis' from whom others can learn.

Rahul noted that while modern society has only recently embraced the concept of environmental protection, the 'Adivasis' have been advocating for it for thousands of years, as reported by The Indian Express.

“We can learn from your history, from your tradition, from your way of life. Not just about the environment, but how to deal with each other, how to respect each other. And of course, your children should have access to the best education, the best hospitals, the best jobs, We are always here to help you, to work with you,” Rahul said.

During a rally in Kalpetta, Wayanad, the Congress leader expressed his deep connection to the region, referring to it as his family. He emphasised that attempts to separate him from the people of Wayanad only served to strengthen their bond, highlighting that the disqualification had actually deepened his relationship with the constituency.

Also read - 'Vanvasi' Vs 'Adivasi': Why Rahul Gandhi Gets It All Wrong