Assam: ASA Strongly Condemns Padma Shri Dulal Manki's Remarks

BISWANATH: The controversial remarks made by Padma Shri awardee and prominent Jhumur artist Dulal Manki, about the Adivasi community have sparked a storm of criticism. In response, the Adivasi Students Association (ASA) has expressed their strong condemnation of the artist's remarks, vowing to protest and initiate a "Jongi movement" if similar comments continue.

During an interview, Dulal Manki stated that he is an Advasi, not only from Assam but from India. But he came to Assam as a member of the tea tribe. In his legacy of 60 years since birth, he identifies himself as a member of the tea tribe community of Assam. He also commented that nowadays the youths are trying to claim the tea tribe community as Tea Tribe Adivasi. But to cultivate the tea gardens in Assam, we were brought from several parts of the country contributing to the state’s prosperity. He is asked if he was born in a tea garden. He replied that they have not been born from a tea garden but they have formed the tea gardens in Assam. He expressed pride in being recognized as a member of the tea tribe community.

His remarks, however, have sparked outrage among the Adivasi community and activists. They feel that Dulal Manki's statements undermine the distinct identity and cultural heritage of the Adivasi people, who have a unique history and heritage separate from the tea tribe community. In response to the controversy, the Adivasi Students Association (ASA) held a press conference in Biswanath’s Japowbari village, where they vehemently criticized the artist's remarks. The ASA representatives expressed their displeasure and asserted that such comments perpetuate misunderstandings and misrepresentations about the Adivasi community.

During the press conference, the ASA issued a stern warning to Dulal Manki. They stated that if he continues to use the term "Tea tribals" to refer to the Adivasi community, they will initiate a violent protest against him. The ASA clarified that the movement will be a powerful protest to demand respect for the Adivasi community and their cultural identity. In a symbolic gesture of protest, the ASA also announced their intention to burn an effigy representing the artist. This act serves as a manifestation of their collective dissent against Dulal Manki's controversial remarks. The ASA believes in promoting mutual understanding and harmony among different communities. They urge public figures like Dulal Manki to exercise caution and sensitivity while discussing matters related to various ethnic communities. As the controversy continues to unfold, the Adivasi community and ASA members demand an apology from the artist.

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