How Tribals Are Fighting to Protect Sacred Groves

Nolina Minj | April 10, 2025 | Scroll.in

Sacred groves in Jharkhand are more than patches of greenery—they are living symbols of the Adivasi community’s spiritual bond with nature. These sites, revered for centuries, are now facing growing threats from urban development and encroachment.

A Human Chain of Resistance

On the morning of March 7, 2025, hundreds of Adivasis gathered in Ranchi, dressed in traditional attire. They formed a human chain, sending out a strong message of resistance. Their aim was simple yet powerful: to protect their sacred grove from further destruction.

Encroachments in the Name of Development

The conflict has been brewing for years. In 2022, Jharkhand’s welfare department launched a beautification project costing nearly ₹5 crore. As part of this plan, a building and a stage were constructed inside the grove. A year later, in 2023, over 1,300 square feet of the grove was cleared to make way for a flyover.

Now, with the construction of the ramp, tribals fear that traffic will directly enter Siram Toli in front of the grove. For them, this is not just a matter of losing space but of losing cultural and spiritual ground that cannot be replaced.

More Than Just Land

For the tribal community, sacred groves are not simply pieces of land. They are at the heart of rituals, festivals, and community gatherings. These groves carry deep cultural memory, linking generations through shared beliefs and practices. They stand as sacred symbols of harmony between people and the natural world.

A Larger Struggle

What is happening in Ranchi is not an isolated event. Across Jharkhand, sacred groves are being steadily encroached upon under the banner of development. For Adivasis, this is not only about the loss of religious sites—it is about the erosion of their cultural identity, traditions, and environment.

Conclusion

The fight to protect sacred groves is a fight for the survival of tribal culture itself. By resisting encroachments, Jharkhand’s Adivasis are safeguarding not only their faith and heritage but also a vital ecological tradition that respects and preserves nature.