RSS affiliate claims World Indigenous People’s Day is irrelevant in India

The World Indigenous People’s Day, observed on August 9 every year, has sparked controversy in India, with the RSS-affiliate Akhil Bharatiya Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram stating that the day holds no relevance for the country. In a statement, the ashram’s president Satyendra Singh emphasized that all Indians, including tribals, are indigenous to India, and therefore, the UN declaration to observe August 9 as the World Indigenous People’s Day is more suited for countries where colonial forces still hold power.

Singh highlighted that India signed the UN declaration in 2007, expressing the view that all Bharatvasis (Indians) are indigenous people of the country. He pointed out that countries like America, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, where colonial forces still have influence, did not sign the declaration. This distinction underscores the unique historical context of India and its independence from colonial rule.

The ashram’s stance on Indigenous People’s Day is rooted in the belief that all people of India, including tribal communities, are integral parts of the country’s Sanatan society. Despite the diversity in lifestyle, language, dress, and traditional practices among different communities, the cultural outlook of the Sanatan society is seen as unified and cohesive. This perspective emphasizes the shared heritage and values that bind all Indians together.

However, Singh raised concerns about external forces and Christian missionaries in India allegedly attempting to sow division in society under the guise of Indigenous People’s Day. He warned against the propagation of separatist ideologies among tribal youths, fueled by the misinterpretation of the day’s significance. The ashram sees this as a threat to the unity and integrity of Indian society, particularly among tribal communities.

The assertion that all Indians are indigenous people of India challenges the narrative of external influences seeking to create divisions based on identity. By emphasizing the unity of the Sanatan society and rejecting the notion of separate indigenous groups, the ashram aims to promote a sense of collective identity and shared heritage among all Indians. This perspective aligns with the broader goal of fostering unity and harmony in a diverse and multicultural country like India.

In conclusion, the debate surrounding the World Indigenous People’s Day in India reflects deeper tensions and complexities related to identity, history, and cultural heritage. The stance taken by the Akhil Bharatiya Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram underscores the importance of recognizing and celebrating the unity and diversity of Indian society, while also cautioning against divisive forces that seek to undermine these values. Ultimately, the discourse on Indigenous People’s Day serves as a reminder of the ongoing dialogue and engagement needed to navigate the complexities of identity and heritage in a rapidly changing world.