Lucknow: The CPI (ML) Red Star has demanded the immediate withdrawal of the Kasturirangan report, arguing that measures aimed at protecting the Western Ghats should not come at the cost of the land, livelihoods and traditional rights of local communities.
The party said protecting the Western Ghats’ forests, water sources, environment and biodiversity was essential, but maintained that farmers, agricultural labourers, tribal communities and rural workers who have lived in the region for generations should not bear the burden of environmental protection.
According to the party, environmental degradation is primarily linked to illegal mining, large corporate activities, indiscriminate forest destruction, major industrial projects and uncontrolled tourism rather than ordinary residents.
The CPI (ML) Red Star has called for legal protection of the land, housing, livelihoods and traditional rights of indigenous communities. It has also demanded village-wise scientific and transparent surveys before demarcating Ecologically Sensitive Zones, with the consent of gram sabhas.
The party further sought an immediate halt to environmentally destructive corporate and large-scale projects and called for an environmental policy involving farmers, tribal communities, workers, experts and civil society organisations.
It also demanded open public hearings involving all stakeholders before decisions concerning the Western Ghats are finalised.
The party said conservation of the Western Ghats was a shared responsibility, but argued that environmental protection should not result in displacement and loss of livelihoods for local residents.
