The Newz Radar
Dharamshala: The Himalayan Gaddi Union in Himachal Pradesh is advocating for the inclusion of the term “Gaddi” to represent six marginalized tribes.
The community’s president Mohinder Singh emphasized that despite continuous appeals to the government, no resolution has been reached on merging the term with the six oppressed sub-tribes. Singh highlighted the need for recognition, stating that it goes beyond tribal rights, focusing on preserving dignity and culture.
Singh expressed concern about certain officials attempting to remove the term “Gaddi” from community records, undermining the community’s identity. Despite comprising 70% of the population, the Gaddi community faces deception. Singh pointed out that the issue isn’t about tribal benefits, it’s about securing respect and dignity.
The Union has actively engaged in social work, disaster relief, and cultural promotion, contributing financially and through volunteer efforts. Singh questioned the repeated negligence of the government in addressing their demand. He disclosed that reports supporting the inclusion of Gaddi term have been submitted to the government multiple times, yet no corrective action has been taken.
Singh warned that if prompt measures aren’t taken, a significant public movement might be inevitable.
The Union’s demand echoes in electoral politics, with Gaddi term becoming a crucial factor in decision-making. Despite investigations and demands made by the state government and Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, no concrete steps have been taken, leaving the community discontented and contemplating a larger protest if their concerns remain unaddressed.
