Dedicated cremation, improved facilities sought for Gujarat Dalits in Amreli district

By A Representative 

Social activist Kantilal Parmar has submitted a formal representation to the District Collector and District Development Officer of Amreli, highlighting the need for dedicated cremation ground land and improved facilities for the Scheduled Caste population in Babra taluka.

The representation, which references the Mumbai Land Revenue Code, 1879 (Section 38) and the Gujarat Land Revenue Rules 72 (Rule 72(1)), along with a specific circular from the Revenue Department of the Government of Gujarat, calls for the immediate implementation of these legal provisions.

In his letter, Parmar states that over 90% of the villages in Babra taluka inhabited by Scheduled Caste communities lack legally designated land for cremation grounds. Despite 79 years of independence, these communities face significant hardship during funerals and burials due to this lack of basic infrastructure.

The activist's petition outlines several specific demands to address these long-standing issues. It calls for the urgent designation and allotment of land for cremation grounds in all villages with a Scheduled Caste population, with local authorities taking suo motu action where necessary. The petition also demands the construction of roads to these sites, as well as the building of sheds for prayer and seating. It calls for the installation of benches and a guaranteed supply of water and electricity.

Furthermore, Parmar has requested that the land at existing cremation grounds be leveled, and that thorny bushes and weeds be cleared. He has also asked for the construction of proper drainage to prevent waterlogging during the monsoon season. To protect the sites, he has demanded that compound walls or wire fences be built. The petition also seeks the immediate removal of any illegal encroachments on designated cremation land, with action to be taken under the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989, and the Land Grabbing Act.

The petition suggests partnering with the Forest Department to plant and nurture trees at cremation sites to mitigate pollution. To fund these projects, it calls for the use of various government grants, including the Scheduled Caste Sub-Plan (SCSP), MP/MLA grants, and funds from the Taluka and District Social Justice Funds. Finally, Parmar has requested that all concerned departments be directed to complete the land designation process within 30 days and has asked for an official action-taken report from the authorities.