MUKESH SHARMA
Kalimpong, September 25:

The Himalayan Forest Villagers Organization (HFVO) today met with the GTA Forest Department head, Ratan Thapa and Tribal Department head, Anit Thapa and submitted a memorandum with their demands. The list includes the demand for household and agricultural land to the tribals under the 2006 Forest Act and Parchas and Pattas to be given to the SCs along with other tribes altogether.
The Organization which has been fighting for the rights of the tribals since 1984, also demand of rightful ownership in the forest land which should be soon initiated along with the provision of the Parchas and Pattas. The Organization’s Secretary, Leela Gurung informed that the Sabhasads have assured them that they will be putting forward the demands to the State Government and also proper steps will be taken regarding the same.