Janjatiya Gaurav Saptah observed at The Law School, University of Jammu

Calling attention to the distinctive contributions of indigenous and tribal peoples to the cultural diversity and ecological harmony of humankind, the Law School, University of Jammu in collaboration with The Tribal Research Institute, Tribal Affairs Department J&K organized a one-day Seminar in the institution’s Seminar Hall on “Tribal Rights and Constitution of India” as part of the Janjatiya Gaurav Saptah- 2023 celebrations. 

The seminar commenced with the inaugural address presented by Dr. Vandita Sharma, Faculty Member, The Law School with a formal welcome of the esteemed guests Sh. Mukhtar A Choudhury, Secretary J&K Advisory Board for Development of Scheduled Tribes, Dr. Abdul Khabir, Dy. Director, Tribal Affairs Department, and Dr. Javaid Rahi, a prominent tribal writer and researcher, among other dignitaries. This was followed by an insightful introductory address on the broad contours and dimensions related to issues faced by tribal communities across India in general and J&K in particular by Dr. Javaid Rahi. Continuing in the same vein, Dr. Mohd. Arif, Prof. (Dr.) Savita Nayyar, Dr. Aarti Sharma from Department of Law and Dr. Monica Narang, Dr. Seema Sharma, Dr. Shubha Vats, Dr. Monika Bhardwaj, Dr. Mrinalini Atrey and Ms. Anjali Sharma from The Law School, deliberated on the theme from multiple standpoints and stressed upon the fact that tribal populace are still unable to enjoy their fundamental human rights to the same degree as the rest of the population and their laws, values, customs and perspectives have often been given less value. The speakers, however, highlighted the initiatives of the central government and regional administration especially Tribal affairs department in rolling numerous schemes for the welfare of the tribal population and expressed hope that the lofty ideal of distributive justice enshrined under the Constitution of India is not a faraway dream for this vulnerable lot. 

Most notably, the students have also shown full participation in the seminar by not only attending the session but by being volunteered them as speakers. Misbah Chowdhary, Anshika Gandhi, Hemanya Puri, Kasak Gupta and Jai Sidh Bhalla from first and third semesters of The Law School also highlighted various provisions under the Constitution of India and other statutes aiming to ensure equality and thwart discrimination in any form in human dealings. 

Appreciating the students for their active participation and interest in tribal issues and challenges, Mukhtar A Choudhary, Guest of Honor, for the seminar emphasized the government’s focus on tribal affairs and encouraged research in this area, expecting academia to submit proposals related to the theme for a broad spectrum of research. Dr. Abdul Khabir provided an overview of the Tribal Research Institute and encouraged researchers to submit proposals for grants from the Tribal Affairs Department J&K. 

During her closing remarks, Prof. (Dr.) Manju Jamwal, Director of The Law School, applauded the Tribal Affairs Department of J&K for including academics in their mission to raise awareness at the local level. She continued by saying that appropriate action must be taken at all levels to support these peoples' full realization of their social, economic, and cultural rights while respecting their institutions, customs, and social and cultural identities. Dr. Nitan Sharma gave a formal vote of gratitude and Mr. Manav Seth led the seminar proceedings. The dignitaries presented certificates and momentos to each speaker as the session came to a close. Other faculty members who participated in the seminar includes Dr. Renu Jamwal, Dr. Rajneesh Khajuria, Dr. Upasana Sharma, Dr. Ramesh Kumar, and Dr. Mool Raj Sharma.