Bhil Tribal Group Conflict

GS1 ART & CULTURE: 

Recent Incident: In February 2025, the Pune rural police presented a report to the NCST regarding Bhil families’ complaint against Vasantdada Sugar Institute (VSI) for alleged attempts to displace them from a 200-acre land leased by the Maharashtra government. VSI’s Director General denied these claims.

Court Proceedings: A civil court granted a status quo order on July 8, 2024, recognizing the Bhils’ potential risk of homelessness. The next hearing is set for February 27, 2025.

Government Involvement: The NCST launched an inquiry, while the Pune District Collector’s report suggested possible land encroachment by the Bhils. The Tehsildar’s findings indicated their claims might lack basis.

About Bhils

• One of India’s largest indigenous tribes, residing in Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan.
• Speak Bhili, an Indo-Aryan language influenced by Gujarati and Marathi.
• Known for Pithora paintings and Ghoomar dance.
• Traditionally skilled archers, mentioned in the Mahabharata.

Historical and Social Significance

• Faced oppression under the British Criminal Tribes Act of 1871.
• Resisted colonial rule, led by figures like Govind Guru.
• Recognized as a Scheduled Tribe (ST) with sub-groups like Dholi Bhil and Bhil Garasia.

This issue highlights ongoing challenges faced by tribal communities regarding land rights and displacement.