The grand gathering of tribals in Mangarh, Rajasthan, has sparked political excitement across Gujarat, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh. This gathering renewed the demand for Bhil Pradesh, a separate state for the Bhil tribe, which could alter political dynamics in these regions.
The Bhil Pradesh Demand
The term “Bhil” originates from the Dravidian word “Veel,” meaning bow. Bhils are one of India’s oldest tribes, with a population of around 10 million nationwide. The demand for Bhil Pradesh dates back to 1913, when social activist Govindgiri and his 1500 supporters in Mangarh called for a separate state. The Bhil community argues that if states like Tamil Nadu for Tamils and Maharashtra for Marathas can exist, why not Bhil Pradesh for Bhils?
Recent Developments
The Bharatiya Adivasi Party has been reviving this demand in Rajasthan’s Dungarpur area. In the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, this party, in alliance with Congress, won the Banswara seat, furthering the call for Bhil Pradesh.
Impact on BJP
- Proposed Bhil Pradesh Map
The proposed Bhil Pradesh includes 49 districts from Gujarat, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh. These districts encompass major business centers like Surat, Indore, Kota, and Thane. - Tribal Voter Influence
Tribal voters play a crucial role in these states. Tribals make up 21.1% of Madhya Pradesh’s population, 14.8% in Gujarat, 13.4% in Rajasthan, and 9.3% in Maharashtra, significantly influencing both assembly and Lok Sabha elections.
Assembly Seats
Tribals hold substantial power in state assemblies:
- 45 seats in Madhya Pradesh’s 230-seat assembly
- 14 seats in Maharashtra’s 288-seat assembly
- 25 seats in Rajasthan’s 200-seat assembly
- 27 seats in Gujarat’s 182-seat assembly
Political Strongholds
The demand for Bhil Pradesh affects BJP-dominated areas. In Gujarat, the proposed districts have 69 assembly seats, with BJP holding 59. In Maharashtra, the districts have 58 seats, with NDA holding 42. Similar dominance exists in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh.
BJP’s Response
So far, no senior BJP leader has commented on the Bhil Pradesh demand. However, Rajasthan’s Tribal Affairs Minister Babu Lal Kharari dismissed the demand, stating that states should not be created based on caste and religion as it could disrupt societal harmony.
Conclusion
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