14-May-2025 Daily Answer Writing
Q1) Critically analyze the legal and ethical dilemmas in reconciling tribal cultural rights with environmental regulations, in light of the symbolic hunting ritual on Parasnath Hill.
(GS Paper 2, 15 Marks, 250 Words)
Answer
The recent standoff at Parasnath Hill between the Santhal tribal community and state authorities has brought to the fore a complex governance challenge. The issue revolves around the tribal demand to perform a symbolic hunting ritual, clashing with environmental regulations and religious sentiments of Jain pilgrims. This reflects deeper dilemmas at the intersection of constitutional rights, cultural identity, and ecological ethics.
Legal and Cultural Conflict:
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Articles 25 and 29 of the Constitution safeguard religious freedom and cultural identity. Santhals assert that their ritual, symbolic in nature, is central to their cultural heritage and does not involve actual harm.
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The region, however, falls under an Eco-Sensitive Zone (2019 notification), where hunting is prohibited irrespective of symbolic status.
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Parasnath is also a revered Jain pilgrimage site, and the ritual is perceived as a desecration by the community.
Governance and Reconciliation Challenges:
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Rituals continued informally in previous years without disruption, but recent judicial intervention has mandated strict enforcement.
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Jharkhand High Court’s directive prohibits the event, raising questions about prior consultation and representation.
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Miscommunication and absence of formal mechanisms risk communal polarization.
Way Forward:
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Initiate structured dialogue among tribal leaders, environmental experts, and religious groups.
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Establish Tribal Cultural Safeguard Committees under state ESZ management bodies.
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Consider regulated symbolic alternatives through participatory frameworks.
Conclusion:
Reconciliation demands a pluralistic, inclusive model of governance that integrates ecological sustainability with respect for indigenous and religious identities.
Read More – 12 May 2025 : Daily Answer Writing
