Nomadic Communities protests against Housing & Identity Documents delays

Representatives from nomadic and semi-nomadic communities have launched an indefinite sit-in protest at Saperon Ki Dhani in Jagatpura, demanding permanent housing and official identity documents.

The protest, organized by the Bharat Jodo Mission Society, criticizes the government for failing to fulfill its manifesto promise of providing land leases (patta) to nomadic families.

According to Bharat Jodo Mission Society’s state president, Aneesh Kumar Nadar, despite 75 years of independence, many members of these communities still lack essential identity documents such as Aadhaar and Ayushman cards.

He highlighted that the Bhajan Lal Sharma-led government had pledged to issue land leases to nomadic families living in specific locations for years but has yet to deliver.

Nadar further emphasized the pressing need for urban housing solutions, proposing the construction of 10,000 flats in every city with a significant nomadic population. He pointed out that Jaipur alone requires 30,000 flats and 100-square-yard plots to alleviate the housing crisis faced by these communities.

The sit-in protest reached its 14th consecutive day on Sunday, with protesters accusing Jaipur Development Authority (JDA) officials of colluding with land mafias to obstruct lease allotments.

Responding to the issue, Panchayati Raj Minister Madan Dilawar announced plans to distribute 30,000 land leases in rural areas soon.

However, he acknowledged the complexities and delays involved in granting urban land leases, signaling continued challenges for the nomadic and semi-nomadic families seeking secure housing and recognition.