PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/ Uttarkashi
Political activity has intensified regarding the Devbhoomi Family ID. Protesting against the scheme, the Uttarakhand Kranti Dal (UKD) submitted a memorandum to the Governor through the district magistrate, Uttarkashi. However, as the DM was busy, the memorandum was handed over to the sub-divisional officer, Uttarkashi. The leaders of the regional party, known for its role in the long-drawn statehood movement, warned that if the interests of the State’s real natives are not prioritised under the Devbhoomi Family ID, the party would launch a state-wide movement.
Speaking of the matter, the UKD district president Pandit Bihari Lal Jagudi said that the provisions of the scheme must be changed in the interests of the natives. “The provision that those, who have resided in the state for 15 years, are considered eligible for registration for the scheme, militates against the spirit of the statehood movement and the objectives of the State’s formation,” he said.
He further said that his party has long demanded the implementation of the domicile system in the State with the year 1950 taken as the cut-off year.
The party’s general secretary and the in-charge of the women’s cell, Kiran Rawat, who is an advocate, said that the government should clarify the intent behind the Devbhoomi Family ID Act. “The current system encourages outsiders to settle in the State, which may adversely affect Uttarakhand’s demography, cultural and social identity,” she added.
The UKD leaders also expressed concerns over the incidents of violence and use of weapons during the pilgrimage season and demanded strict action against those involved in violence.
