Tribal groups allege encroachment on Sacred Land in Ranchi

Pioneer News Service
Ranchi

Allegations of illegal land grabbing and fraudulent property transactions have resurfaced in Jharkhand’s capital, with tribal organisations accusing land mafias of attempting to encroach upon community-owned religious land in the Kokar area.

The latest dispute centres on **Gurgut Maidan**, where members of the local tribal community claim that boundary walls are being constructed overnight on land traditionally used for Jatra and Dhumkuria, important cultural and religious gatherings. Residents allege that the construction is part of an attempt to unlawfully seize the property.

Social activist Ajay Tirkey alleged that Plot Nos. 118 and 121 belong to the tribal community and accused certain individuals of using forged or duplicate documents to falsely claim ownership. He said the documents would be examined and demanded strict action against anyone found to have fabricated records.

According to Tirkey, the land has long served as a venue for tribal religious rituals, cultural events and community functions, making its preservation a matter of social and cultural significance.

Echoing these concerns, Sarna Committee president Nirmala Munda said the alleged encroachment on religious land has created anxiety among local residents. She urged authorities to protect the rights of the tribal community and ensure that justice is delivered.

Villagers also alleged that intermediaries and brokers have been facilitating questionable land transactions in the area, potentially affecting tribal-owned land. They claimed that both outsiders and some local individuals could be involved in the alleged activities