In April 2001, S.M. Krishna, then Chief Minister of Karnataka, made history by holding a Cabinet meeting in the middle of a forest. This extraordinary event, held in H.D. Kote, wasn’t just a symbolic gesture—it led to significant decisions aimed at improving the lives of tribal communities.
The Background
The idea for the meeting came from a case filed by Dr. R. Balasubramaniam, founder of the Swami Vivekananda Youth Movement (SVYM). This organization was started in the 1980s by Dr. Balasubramaniam and a group of students from Mysore Medical College to help marginalized communities.
Dr. Balasubramaniam had approached the National Human Rights Commission, highlighting how tribals were being deprived of their rights. Many had been evicted from forests to make way for dams or national parks without proper rehabilitation. He sued the Karnataka government for violating tribal rights and won the case.
Following this victory, Dr. Balasubramaniam met with S.M. Krishna and explained the challenges faced by the tribals. He highlighted the conflict between the Forest and Revenue Departments, which was delaying solutions. Krishna agreed that a Cabinet meeting was necessary to address these issues. Dr. Balasubramaniam then suggested holding the meeting in the forest itself, with tribal leaders present, to ensure transparency.
The Historic Cabinet Meeting
S.M. Krishna showed great empathy and agreed to the suggestion. For the first time in Independent India, a Cabinet meeting was held outside a State capital, deep inside a forest.
Key Decisions Taken
Several crucial decisions were made during this meeting:
- Housing for Tribals: Approval for building nearly 3,500 houses for tribal families.
- Land Allocation: Allocation of 500 acres of land for tribal welfare projects.
- Healthcare for Tribals: Training 100 tribal girls as Auxiliary Nurse Midwives and ensuring their employment in the government’s Health Department.
Impact of the Meeting
This meeting was more than just a milestone in governance. It gave tribal communities a platform to voice their grievances directly to the Chief Minister. NGOs like Development through Education (DEED) were also present and submitted petitions on behalf of the tribals.
S. Sreekanth from DEED recalled that the meeting was cordial and productive. He noted how the Chief Minister’s willingness to listen to tribal concerns brought much-needed attention from both the government and the media. Tribals still remember this event as a turning point that focused on their welfare and highlighted their struggles.
Conclusion
S.M. Krishna’s forest Cabinet meeting was a unique moment in Indian political history. It not only addressed the immediate needs of tribal communities but also set an example of inclusive and empathetic governance. This event remains a testament to how bold and compassionate leadership can bring meaningful change to marginalized communities.
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