CM Reaffirms Commitment to Tribal Rights, Welfare

Amaravati: Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Monday reaffirmed the Andhra Pradesh government's commitment to protecting tribal rights and welfare, stating that every possible legal option is being explored to safeguard the interests of Scheduled Tribe communities following the Supreme Court's judgment on GO No. 3.

Chairing a review meeting on tribal welfare and development at the Secretariat, the Chief Minister reviewed developments related to the Supreme Court verdict, employment opportunities for local tribal communities and measures to address their concerns through consultation and dialogue.

Naidu said GO No. 3, issued in 2000 in the undivided Andhra Pradesh, had provided 100 percent reservation in government jobs for local Scheduled Tribe candidates in Scheduled Areas for nearly two decades. He stated that the Supreme Court struck down the order on April 22, 2020, and alleged that the previous government had failed to effectively defend it before the court or pursue meaningful follow-up measures after the verdict.

The Chief Minister said the coalition government is now examining legally sustainable alternatives to ensure that the intended benefits of GO No. 3 reach tribal communities while remaining consistent with the Constitution Bench judgment.

He directed officials to immediately begin consultations with tribal organisations on issues related to local employment and tribal welfare. Senior officials and tribal public representatives have been asked to hold detailed discussions with tribal organisations, explain the government's efforts and seek suggestions to overcome legal challenges.

Naidu also directed officials to bring Alluri Sitarama Raju district under Zone I and Polavaram district under Zone II, asking them to complete the process at the earliest.

Addressing concerns over bauxite mining, the Chief Minister said the government would not take any decision that undermines the rights or sentiments of tribal communities. He also reiterated that there was no change in the implementation of the 1/70 Regulation and instructed officials to communicate this clearly to tribal organisations.

Highlighting the government's tribal welfare initiatives, Naidu said the administration has prioritised programmes such as the promotion of Araku Coffee, along with improvements in healthcare, education and transport infrastructure in tribal areas.

He emphasised that comprehensive development of tribal regions remains a key objective of the government and said sustained dialogue with tribal communities would continue to guide policy decisions.

Minister Gummidi Sandhya Rani, Chief Secretary G. Sai Prasad, Tribal Welfare Secretary Naik, GAD Principal Secretary S.S. Rawat and Law Department officials attended the review meeting.