Return indigenous people's lands, try Sarans killers
The programme was held on Sunday to mark the 5th death anniversary of Saran, who was killed in Bhimpur in a fight for protecting land rights of indigenous people.
The rally also demanded enactment of laws to protect Bhimpur indigenous peoples' land rights.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel. The programme was jointly organised by Adivasi Dibash Uajapon Committee Rajshahi, Jatiya Adivasi Parishad and some indigenous peoples' organisations.
A large number of journalists from northern districts, NGO workers, foreigners, local government leaders and elite also attended the programme.
Indigenous men, women and children belonging to 30 communities inlcuding Santal, Orao, Munda, Rai and Paharia from northern districts including Godagari, Khakonhat, Mondumala and Dinajpur joined the programme.
The day-long programme began with placing wreaths at grave of Alfeard Saran at Bhimpur village.
It was followed by a big procession. The processi-onists paraded different roads in the village chanting various slogans and carrying banners and festoons highlighting their demands.
Bhimpur indigenous leader Ami Kujur presided over the rally, addressed by, among others, Rajshahi district Jatiya Adivasi Parishad President Bimol Chandra, Shubin Munda, Sakin Munda and Anil Jotis Marandi.
Jatiya Adivasi Parishad central president Anil Marandi was the chief guest.
Speaking on the occasion, Anil Marandi urged the indigenous people to unite to realise their rights for which Alfeard Saran sacrificed his life.
They expressed their dissatisfaction at the slow process in the trial of Saran murder.
Five years have past but there has been virtually no progress in the trial, they said.
They also urged the government to take steps to return their lands in the area grabbed allegedly by local influential Bangalees.
They also demanded immediate measures to ensure their right to education in their mother languages.
After the rally, Shantal, Oraio, Munda and Rai women presented a 'prayer song' dedicated to the memory of Alferd Saran.
Earlier, they also performed Puja (a religious rite) for eternal peace of Alfeard Saran's soul.