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LIGHT HOUSE OF THE DENOTIFIED TRIBES AND NOMADIC TRIBES
HARIBHAU RATHOD
AUTHOR: - EKNATH PAWAR AUTHOR OF “VEDANA”
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LIGHT HOUSE OF THE DENOTIFIED TRIBES AND NOMADIC TRIBES
HARIBHAU RATHOD
AUTHOR: - EKNATH PAWAR AUTHOR OF “VEDANA”
R.K. Publications, Nagpur (Maharashtra)
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LIGHT HOUSE OF THE DENOTIFIED TRIBES AND NOMADIC TRIBES;-HARIBHAU RATHOD
AUTHOR: - EKNATH PAWAR AUTHOR OF “VEDANA”
All rights reserved with:
Vishwanath R. Naik,
Banajara Palace, Sevadas Nagar,
TalukaManora,
District: -Vashim (Maharashtra)
Mobile No:-7769027167
Publisher:-Kalam Ahmad Khan
R.K. Publication, Nagpur (Maharashtra)
C/o Azad Colony, MothaTaj Bag, Umred Road,
Nagpur.
Cover Page: Concept
PoonamEknathNaik (Pawar)
Printers
Raj Printers & Offset Work, Umred (Nagpur)
First Edition:- 23.11.2012
Second Edition-: 04.02.2013
Voluntary Contribution: Rs.200/-
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Disclaimer:
The writer of this book doesn’t belong to any political party. He does
not have any personal beneficial relationship with any political leader.
The political events included in this book are only as references.
Events included in this book are only as references. Moreover, this
book has not been written with keeping in view any political intention.
The readers should kindly take note as the said.
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Humbly submitted
To my mother Bhagirathi and father Vishwanath who taught mehuman values, gave strength to fight for human rights.In hot sun, dark nights, who protected me”To the great Vasantrao Naik who selflessly served people and searched God,Yeshu and Allah, who pioneered the developmentand decentralization of power in Maharashtra;The father of Green Revolution, who would weepwhen the farmer is hurt due to thorn”“To my all brothers and sisters from all Denotified Tribes,Nomadic and Semi Nomadic Tribes, whose songssing tearful pains in the rhythm of gentle blowing winds,sweet songs of spring flowing in hills,these brothers and sisters who gave me warmth oftheir love and affection and motivated my blooming carrer”.
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Author Speak :Any person, society, and the nation who does not recollect their
history or cannot create new history is useless, they do not have
existence. The history of all India Denotified Tribes and Nomadic
Tribes community (DNTS and nomads) is very honorable and has
great pride. This community fought with English Rulers very bravely.
This community was the first community to oppose the English
Rulers. This community loves freedom and bravely fights for
freedom. This history is unknown. This community was branded as
criminal by wicked and crooked strategies of English Rulers and the
then established communities. It is a need of hour for young
generation to think as to how and why the English Rulers and the
then established communities threw these DNTs and nomads
Nomadic Community out of main stream society.
The time never remains static; it always changes. We must
strive to adjust to changes so as to keep up with times. I shall be
always keep on writing for ensuring that the society keeps on striving
for changes and hones humanitarian values. With the help of my
writings and literature, I have been supporting all weaker sections,
backward classes, DNTs and nomads and in future I shall continue to
support them.
Everybody should understand and follow the vision of Shri.
Vasantrao Naik, promoter and founder of modern movement for
uplifting the DNTs and nomads and should strive for giving impetus to
the growth and dynamism of this movement. The social movement
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should turn into storm of social understanding to stop injustice,
exploitation of DNTs and nomads permanently. The dedicated and
hardworking volunteers of this movement are really light house of this
movement. A great leader having understanding of human values can
only create great crusade for all downtrodden and deprived people.
Shri Haribhau Rathod is such great personality.
I felt objectively and without selfish motive that we should
appreciate and recognize his social commitment, his deeds, hard
work, struggle, crusade for downtrodden and deprived people from
Venkatchallya commission to Renke commission and Dr. Narendra
Jadhav committee. Hon’ble Shri Gopinath Mundesab had recognized
and taken note of his hard work in 1997. I am taking all efforts to
ensure that our society should not lag behind developed society. I
have tried to achieve this through this book. Shri Haribhau Rathod’s
social contribution at national level is praise worthy.
Instead of levying criticism on others or wasting time in useless
activities, each of our fellow community members should make efforts
to ensure that our community develops socially, our movement
gathers momentum. Everybody has this desire, but unfortunately
there are many people, antisocial elements, who divide the
community by pulling legs, creating conflicts among members of
community, and members of family, various groups within the
community. They are getting move active. Until the community does
not understand this, this huge community shall remain backward.
We should engrain the values of self-dependence, self-esteem
and understanding of social values. In the past, Maharashtra got
popular Chief Ministers like Shri. Maroterao Kannamwar, Shri.
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Vasantrao Naik, Shri. Sudhakar Naik. They were attentive to
people’s problems. Many other States are also having Banjara
Ministers but compared to the population of Banjaras, their
representation of Banjaras in the Ministry is very less. We should
follow the foot steps of Mahanayak Vasantrao Naik and create will
power and organization. We should not merely fight among
ourselves in Grampanchayat. The conflicts and quarrels of the
caravan should be sorted out in caravan itself. We should not get
entangled in litigation and addiction to various vices and waste
money.
Shri.Haribhau Rathod served community and people at large
and was accepted by people and hence he was elected to
Parliament. He fought for solving social issues and is spreading is
“Mission” all over India. You should create good impression at least
in Panchayat Committee, Janpad, and Jansabha. The government
has formulated various schemes for the community, but their benefits
do not reach to caravan, pal, rahoti. The community is deprived from
revenue status. Unless we raise voice for our rights, do not unite, do
not pursue and follow our questions with representatives of people,
the people of these communities shall lead neglected and deprived
life.
The younger generation should now take lead in making
several statements “Gorur Raj Aay” a reality (let there be empire of
Gorurs”). I do not have any personal and selfish motive behind
authoring this book. I am not connected with any political objective or
political party even remotely.
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I have been raised in political atmosphere right since my
childhood. I learnt politics from my grandfather Ramaji Naik (Powar),
father Vishwanath Naik and uncle Shri. Narayanrao Naik. Even
though there was a “birth wish” or “inherited feeling” to join politics
and give a youthful and transformation list leadership, I do not even
think of joining politics because today’s politics is highly polluted. The
politics has stooped to very low level. Instead of development and
improvement, the politics has become protection of interests of
capitalist, earning money, splitting castes from each other and pulling
each other’s legs. One should remain aloof from such politics. The
society can be improved through social commitment. For the
purpose of enforcing social rights, movement, agitation can be made
in legal and constitutional manner. It is not necessary to join politics
for this purpose.
Do not deprive your children of education. Even if you starve,
you must educate your children. Give them books to read which will
motivate them. I still remember, my father sold all Turdal in house
and bought book “You can win” written by Shiv Kera for me. Do not
get entangled in useless stories, useless and false religious rituals.
Entire society has gone to dogs because of such blind faith. This
modern age is a scientific age and not of magic, pulling carts and
quackery. The times are changing. The superstitions have spoiled
the society, some evil practices, rituals, customs, thoughts; traditions
will have to be forgone. One must make friendship with science and
technology, not with religious books and evil addictions, old thoughts,
etc.
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There is a small caravan “Ashiyad” in Raichur (Karnataka), so
for more than 350 people from this caravan have become officers.
Today, it is known as officer’s caravan. When Rahul Gandhi visited
this caravan, he was astonished because of revolutionary
transformation in the caravan. The other caravans should remember
this caravan as their ideal.
I am overwhelmed by feelings while communicating with you,
but it is essential to express my all feelings. There is no doubt that
our expectations shall be fulfilled in future publication. Your valuable
contribution has made me famous in social work and literature. You
have given very positive and valuable response to my articles and
poems published at various places. I got great strength from this. All
of you are learned and understanding. Let us strengthen movement
for social justice. I am very much thankful to Ex Minister Shri.
Makharamji Pawar. I am very much thankful to all who have given a
great and valuable contribution for Bahujan Samaj especially Banjara
Community. I am also very much thankful to Cabinet Minister
Hon’ble Shri P. Balaram Naik who has given valuable contribution for
development of Banjara Community, and also to Hon’ble Balkrishna
Renke, Chandram Guruji, Mahadev Jankar, Hon’ble Minister Nakay
(Karnataka) Shri Ramesh Rathod (member of Parliament), Ramanna
Lamani (MLA), Manohar Enapure, Sadhusingh Dharamstot (MLA,
Punjab), Prabhusingh Nayak (MLA, Andhra Pradesh) Hon’ble
Minister Manohar Naik, Amar Singh Tilawat, K.J. Banjara (Gujrat),
Omprakash Kamal (USA) Prof. Mudhkar Pawar, Prof. Chandrakant
Pawar, Ex-Mayor Shewantabai Pawar, Laxman Gaikwad, Ramesh
Arya, Chandansingh Rotale, Advocate Pallavi Renke, Prof Motiraj
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Rathod, Govind Chavan, Nanded, Macchindra Bhosale, N.R. Shere,
Mayor Alkatai Rathod, Harishchandra Pawar, Shankar Ade, Vilas
Rathod, Prakash Lonare, Ashok Pawar, Rama Jadhav, Nitin Sardar,
Ramji Ade, Wamanrao Shingam, Dinkar Gulhane, Aarti Kulkarni,
Ganesh Nnavase, Suraj Patil, Vijaya Marotkar, Satish Makhram
Pawar, Narendra Naik, Dr. Shyamala Devi, Pankaj Rathod, Vasant
Pawar, Gopal Rathod, Sandesh Chavan, Mohan Rathod, Vaishali
Sonune, Dr. Sanyogita Naik, Ratan Ade, Vandana Pal, Kailash
Chavan, Deenanath Waghmare, Sudhir Kandarkar, all workers of
these great movement. I am also thankful to all social and selfless
workers who have helped me directly or indirectly.
Yours
Date: 23.11.2012 Eknath Vishwanath Pawar
Place: New Delhi (Author of “Vedana”)
Mobile: 9850131368
Email :[email protected]
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Actual Background of this bookFrom Author
Shri Haribhau Rahod formed Kranti Dal for uplift of Denotified
Tribes and Nomadic Tribes. Revolution was galloping for social
service. At that time, I was just 15-16 years old. Since Haribhau was
operating this revolution from Mumbai, it was natural that this
revolution would take time to reach us Nomadics in Jungle!
I did not know who Haribhau Rathod is, but it is a strange and
interesting story, how he became my Guru and I became his disciple.
I got just a glimpse of this great Light House of Denotified Tribes and
Nomadic Tribes who started a great fight for their rights not only in
Maharashtra but also in India since many decades. Hence, even
today this actual background of this book brings new energy to my
mind.
After attaining certain age, a person gets strong desire to get
knowledge. His thought process also improves.
My lion hearted father Vishwanth did not bother to put his life in
danger for saving my life when I was being swayed in flood of
Arunavati River. He taught very good impressions to me. I got lot of
inspiration from my father. I developed perpetual liking for study and
thinking.
I had a standard schedule of studies in my school. It had 10-11
stages from reciting National Anthem to keeping silence (maun). I
was paying special attention to “Important News” in the schedule. I
used to eagerly wait for listening any news about our community or
any person from our community. One day, after completing the daily 12
schedule, our teacher announced “from next Monday, the Eknath
Pawar Group shall present the schedule; everybody from the group
should prepare himself.” Ganesh Rathod, Pintya Rude and one
Ramesh from Barbar Community belonged to our group. We started
our work to ensure that presentation of our group should be
something different from others. It was not possible for a poor person
in a Denotified Tribe and Nomadic Tribe who was somehow
desperately trying to make two ends meet to get books, newspapers
and magazines for reading. At that time, whenever I could find a
piece of paper in road, I would pick it up. I was fond of collecting
newspaper cuttings.
Sellers of various goods used to gather in every Sunday at a
place and they used to hold “Weekly Bazar”. One Sunday I went to
Bazar. The vegetable vendors were selling vegetable by using
different tricks like shouting “come on, come on, hurry up, are you
buying or do I distribute free of cost?” Some buyers were exchanging
their happy and unhappy life experiences. However, I was totally
engrossed in collecting papers. The sweets shopkeeper had cleaned
his shop and there was a small heap of garbage. While looking for
paper, I got a piece of paper. I saw letters “Banjara Revolution” on
that piece of paper. I shouted “I got it, I got it” and started jumping
with joy. Many people gathered near me. Some people thought I
must have found money. Some people threatened me and said
“come on boy, some money has fallen from my pockets, give me
immediately”. I was standing like a thief, but was feeling very happy.
One man caught hold of my shirt “tell me boy, how much of my
money, you have found? Give it to me immediately, or else I shall
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beat you”. Other man intervened and forced the first man to release
my shirt and asked me “what have you found?” Then I shouted “I
have found a diamond”. Everybody was surprised. Some of them
asked “diamond? and that too in this garbage?
When I asked “who wants this diamond found in Garbage?”
some said “I want, I want” then a fight ensued. Some people jumped
on my fist in which I had clinched the paper. They pounced on me
just as wolf pounces on deer. There was big crowd and people were
falling on each other. I sat down cleverly. People mistook me and
started exchanging blows amongst themselves. I also received
some blows. I sat down and started laughing. I said “Why are you
ignoring genuine diamond and looking for artificial diamond? I
somehow escaped from the crowd and showed the piece of paper
and put my figure on matter printed on the paper “Morchas of Banjara
Kranti! Dal is organizing Morcha at Mumbai on 5th January. Do come
in large numbers”. I continued “Shri Haribhau Rathod is the diamond.
Bye Bye”.
All people rushed towards me. I ran for my life. I slipped, hit a
stone and hurt my head. I was panting. Somehow I reached my
home. “Yadi” (Mother) and “ba” (father) had not returned home.
Anandrao uncle took me to Dr. Kabara in Varoli Village. Since my
head was badly hurt, the doctor put 3-4 stiches. These stiches still
remind me of this instance.
After returning home, I slept. My parents returned late in night.
My mother stated weeping on seeing the bandage on my head. She
was surprised on hearing the incidence. After the anger of my
parents was subsided, I asked them about Kranti Dal and Haribhau,
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but they also did not have any idea. I felt frustrated. I decided that I
must find out this diamond in the society and slept on a torn mattress.
I was engrossed in the thought which story and news I should
tell next day. A thought crossed my mind. I should tell the story of
Shri Haribhau Rathod tomorrow under the title “Introduction to a
Personality” and I shouted “I got it, I got it”. My parents awoke from
sleep. My mother was scared. She felt some ghost has possessed
me and asked me accordingly. I told her that so far nobody has seen
any ghost. It must be about 2-3 O-clock in night. She took name of
Saint Sevalal and gave me a glass of water to drink and then we
slept. I had to present schedule in school on Monday. Hence I went
early to the school. I had reserved the item of “News and storytelling”
for myself from the schedule, in the same manner as the leaders
reserve a post in a committee or in a corporation for their relatives. I
felt happy when the schedule started. After the items of saying
National Anthem, Vow, Prayer, good thought, my name was
announced. While presenting the daily schedule, the boys used to
take paper in their hand and read. However since I did not have any
paper in my hand, all students and teacher started looking with
curiosity. I took out the paper which I found in Varoli Bazar and
began telling.
“Namaste, I am EknathPawar”
“Today’s headlines from Vasantrao Center.
On 5th of January, Kranti Dal shall be taking out a morcha in
Mumbai. The Morcha shall be led by Shri Haribhau Rathod. He has
urged the members of Denotified Tribes and Nomadic Tribes to
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attend the Morcha in large numbers. Thanks, today’s headlines are
over. We will meet on this center. Till then good bye.”
Our teacher told me “Eknath, tell some more news”. I told him,
“Sir this is the only headline today”. Then I started telling story.
“Dear student-friends, today I will tell a story titled “I found a
diamond”.
A Nomadic person crazy for achieving his aim was staying in a
caravan. He was always crazy after finding new things. One day he
decided to find a diamond. Many heaps of garbage was lying around
him. Everybody ignored these heaps. It was dark in the hut of this
Nomadic person; hence he searched outside in one moonlit night. He
found a diamond. The diamond was glittering. He was very happy.
He showed the diamond to all people. Everybody said “Many times
we have seen this diamond in these heaps, but we did not pick up
this diamond.”
When he said “This diamond is very valuable, people became
wide eyed. Somebody said “Boy, please let us see the diamond”
“Wow! How much it glitters! Today we came to know there is a
glittering diamond.” I said “That is the end of today’s story. Moral of
the story is: - “Find out, search. Then you will get. You will
understand that due to ignorance one does not come to know the
value of a valuable thing close to him”.
Everybody clapped. My teacher was very happy. He
appreciated me. The girls started whispering “Today’s schedule was
very good! How nice!”
Then I returned to my class, but my entire attention was
focused on the exemplary story. Everybody liked the story, but
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nobody knew the true hidden meaning of the story. I could not pay
attention to the class on that day. Hence I bunked afternoon classes.
Next day after schedule was over, the teacher told “Those who
bunked the school yesterday afternoon should wait”.
Out of our boys group, four were from our caravan. The
teacher hit everybody and came to me. He said “Oh, over wise!
Where you did go to search diamond?” and slapped me hard. He
also gave me few blows on my back. As a protest of this injustice, I
took my bag and went to my house. The teacher was looking at me,
but I did not stop me. I did not attend school for 7-8 days, but I was
studying hard.
I began to think. I became aware of self respect of our
community. These events of finding the newspaper cutting of
Haribhau’s organization, getting hurt in the river, mentioning
Haribhau’s name in the schedule of school, getting beaten next day
by teacher. All these happened in the school life like an accident.
These instances created big impact on me. Shri Haribhau Rathod
must be the same person for whom I was looking for. All this was
engraved on my mind either accidently or when I was studying the
community.
At that time the image of Shri Haribhau Rathod in my mind was
not of a great fighter for the Denotified Tribes and Nomadic Tribes,
and also as their Light House, but I was highly impressed by the fact
that Shri Haribhau Rathod, a great worker is creating a movement for
the Denotified Tribes and Nomadic Tribes who are scattered all over
India liked garbage. Since then, the bond as teacher and student
was formed between me and him and those events in school life
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became reality under the title of “Haribhau Rathod: Light House of
Denotified Tribes and Nomadic Tribes.
PhotoFamily of Shri Haribhau Rathod.
Banjara Community is a group of strong, bold, tough, wiry and
adventurous people in India. Banjara Community is nurturing a
historical and peculiar culture. It is spread all over India from
Himalaya to Kanyakumari.
This community is strong Kshatriya (Warriors). It settled in
historically warrior’s place, Rajasthan state. With the passage of
time, this community faced defeats and spread elsewhere. They had
to become Nomadic. They began to create their transit camps, put
up tents at the out skirts of towns near nature and stay there. During
this time the established social structure treated these Nomadic
Tribes in very illegal, inhuman manner. These tribes were innocent
and the so called “established people” took undue benefits of the
innocence and kept this tribles far away from social reform.
Shri Haribhau Rathod was born on 04.02.1954 in this Banjara
Community, ridden by poverty and is deprived from their rights. He
was born at village Wagda, Taluka Kelapur Dist. Yawatmal. His
father’s name is Nasaru and mother’s name is Ghamabai. Right from
childhood Haribhau Rathod is very sensitive. He is aware of the
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hardships suffered by his parents. When Haribhau was 9 years old,
he lost his land for construction of Saikheda dam; hence he had to
leave Wagda. Nasarubaba loved agriculture, had to leave the place,
land and farm. Nasrubaba could not control his emotions as he loved
his land and farm like his mother. He cried. On seeing his father
crying like this, Haribhau was very disturbed and unhappy and he
also cried.
Nasarubaba was severely pained due to hurt feelings that he
had to leave the land and farm which took his care like mother. He
could not move, but ultimately he had to leave. He collected all his
belongings and started searching his new life. His mind and heart
were heavy. The Wagada caravan was deeply moved with both
happy and sad memories. Everybody cried. Haribhau also cried.
His mother noted it and asked him “Son, did you forget anything”.
Haribhau loved the tree he used to irrigate every day. He was
very upset due to thought that he could not take his “friend” with him.
Now who will irrigate the tree? This and many other questions
bombarded Haribhau’s mind and he started crying.
He hugged the tree. He hugged his goat “Makya”, took the
goat sat in bullock cart.
This caravan of nomads left Wagda and reached Dama
(Mankar) Taluka Kelapur and camped there. Nasarubaba wanted his
son, Haribhau to study. He admitted Haribhau in Samarth High
School at Ghatanji. Due to adverse situation of the family, Haribhau
chose to stay in hostel. He completed his secondary education in
Netaji High School. He completed his college education upto
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graduation in Babasaheb Deshmukh Parvekar College at
Pandharkawda.
Haribhau was fully aware of his situation. He was seeing his
parents slogging in fields. The hardship and sufferings the Denotified
Tribes and Nomadic Tribes for earning their livelihood made Haribhau
restless. He became strong willed on seeing the plight his family and
his community; he started studying with more focus and
perseverance.
Strong will and tenacity is very important during student life. It
is not possible to achieve success without these qualities. Haribhau
became graduate with the help of Government scholarship and funds
provided by his parents after hard work and struggle and also by his
very strong will power to achieve success.
He wanted to complete L.L.B., become a big lawyer and serve
the people. He took admission to first semester of L.L.B. and passed
the examination, but his mind was very unhappy because of
hardships and struggle his parents were undergoing and financial
troubles faced by them. Now it was not possible for Nasarubaba to
somehow manage to send money to Haribhau. It is correct that
father does anything for his son, but, Haribhau found it wrong that his
father should face hardship and starving and has to beg others for
sending money to Haribhau for his education.
How far we are capable of fighting with these adverse
conditions? Do we inculcate the virtues of tenacity and honesty to
overcome adverse situation or run away from the situation? The time
tests everybody to ascertain this. One, who passes the test of time,
is extra-ordinary person in true sense.
20
Haribhau faced this situation in his life. He took pride in facing
situation bravely and finding something new. During the period of
financial stringency, he got a good job in finance department in
Mantralaya in 1977 on his own.
When the caravan got the news of Haribhau’s employment,
everybody was happy. Hard work done by Nasaru Uncle had borne
fruits. It was very happy day. Haribhau Rathod, a capable young
man from Banajra Community living in dense forests has got a good
job on his own.
The relatives were feeling very unhappy because this sensitive
man was leaving this nest. Haribhau became emotional. He
visualized parents hardworking and slogging for their child. He
visualized affectionate people in caravan. He valued these people
move than the job.
Haribhau was to leave for Mumbai. All people assembled near
him. All relatives, acquaintances were crying. The tears were telling
something to Haribhau.
Sensitive Haribhau consoled himself that he will preserve these
feelings in his mind. Then he left for further journey. He took very
less luggage. People came to see him off.
His mother was crying as he was leaving for Mumbai, a faraway
place. Haribhau also cried like a newly wedgirl cries at the time of
leaving her house to go to her husband’s place.
The relatives told him write letters. Shewanta kaki came and
gave him Bajari ki Roti. Haribhau took blessings of the parents and
othersand left for Mumbai.
21
Haribhau sent his first salary to the caravan. He and his
parents felt happy as the hardship, miseries and slogging for earning
bread were over They settled in Mumbai. However, Haribhau did not
forget his caravan in this fashionable, glamorous, modern, showy
world of Mumbai. The caravan did not study, but worshipped the
stones. Haribhau had kept the caravan at his heart.
Haribhau was not a person to enjoy and chase momentary
pleasure with the help of money.
Haribhau felt that the capable young persons from the caravan
like him also should get jobs. They also should be self-sufficient and
should live with self-esteem. He also felt that he must help the young
boys for this purpose. He enrolled many Banjara backward class
boys in the employment exchange office Mumbai. Many Gormati
boys got government jobs as a result of help from Haribhau. Now
many young boys gathered around Haribhau.
He felt sympathy for thousands of workers who came to
Mumbai to earn their livelihood. He began to work for such workers.
He united them and organized Bharatnagar, a colony for them at
Bandra-Kurla Complex, Mumbai. He had more and more feelings for
DNTs and Nomadic Tribes. He tried to get them voter’s ID card,
Ration Card. He took up issues of workers and Gormatis as his own
issues. As a result, he started getting more popular. He did not
develop interest in his Mantralaya job. He joined Maharashtra
Tourism Development Corporation in 1979. After working there for
some time, he joined Maharashtra State Electricity Board at senior
level as “Accounts Officer” in 1982.
22
During his tenure with MSEB, Haribhau organized movement
for rights of workers of MSEB. He stopped their wrong deduction of
Income-Tax at source from their salary.
Even though Haribhau was employed, he was attracted to
social work. Right from childhood, he had warm feelings for society.
Slowly he was attracted towards social service. He developed new
thoughts. An illustration of his social commitment and modern values
is that he opened a well for Dalits so that they can get drinking water.
Shri Vasantrao Naik, Ex-chief Minister of Maharashtra had felicitated
him for his singular Noble deed.
PhotoA question arose in his mind that why a human being should
discard another human being. Banjara Community is very staunch,
dogmatic Kshatriya Community. Its attitude towards other castes is
different. Haribhau was of the opinion that Banjara Community has to
get rid of this attitude. The castism is a bad evil harmful to the
society. Haribhau never hated people of other castes. His soul was
striving for welfare of development of Denotified Tribes and Nomadic
Tribes.
Banjara Community is now Denotified Tribe, but in past, it was
very brave, prosperous, ruling Kshatriya Community. However,
during modern times, the Denotified Tribes and Nomadic Tribes
started facing horrible conditions due to treatment given to them by
modern established social structure. This created bad impression on
entire existence of Banjaras.
23
Once upon a time, this Banjara community was a ruling
community. It was brave, but during the passage of time, if became
Nomadic, wondering from place to place to earn livelihood. Since
they had to live life of Nomadic, they had to forget fundamental
matters like education, health, appropriate shelter etc.
Haribhau started “Banjara Jodo” movement to unite Banjara
community. At the same time Shri Makhram Pawar, Ex-Minister was
also working hard to unite Banjaras.
During this time dispute arose “Banjaras Vs Vanjaras”. Vanjara
Community was active in obtaining false caste certificate in the name
of Banjaras and usurping Government facilities. Haribhau raised his
voice against this injustice. Important Banjara leaders like Makhram
Pawar, Ranjit Naik also protested against this injustice.
Lokneta Sudhakar Rao Naik kept his honor intact and quit the
Chief Minister ship of Maharashtra after serial Bomb explosions in
Mumbai. Subsequently, Sharad Pawar became Chief Minister.
Haribhau convinced Sharad Pawar that the fraud committed by
Vanjaras as stated above is an injustice on Banjaras.
Maharashtra Government appointed “Wadhawa” committee in
1992 in connection with this dispute. In this respect, Shri Makhram
Pawar, Shri Haribhau Rathod and Shri Ranjit Naik furnished
important information to the Government. Haribhau demanded that
since Banjaras and Vanjaras are separate communities, both should
have separate reservations. At that time Banjaras were getting 2-5%
reservation. Haribhau was successful in getting it raised to 3%. The
community was inclined to support Haribhau.
24
There are very few people who accept their social responsibility
even after getting employment. Normally a person forgets his duty
after getting employment. His world is limited to his wife, his children,
his house and his vehicle that’s all.
However, Haribhau was not one of such persons. He never
avoided social work. Number of his followers and supporters began
to increase rapidly.
Everybody began to feel that there should be a powerful
organization for uniting the community. Haribhau resorted to writing
articles. His articles started getting published in respected
newspapers like Maharashtra Times, Loksatta, Pudhari and Nagpur
Patrika. His articles were of high standard, full of thoughts and of
good quality.
Many wise men and thinkers in Mumbai began to feel that
Haribhau can guide Banjara community. It was need of hour that
Banjara Community unites itself in a gets a pervasive and effective
organization. It was call of the time that considering the need of the
Community, it should be led by a leader who will work hard with
intencity and devotion.
On 04.02.1991 i.e. on Haribhau’s birthday, a “revolutionary,
organization, “Banjara Kranti Dal” was formed. Considering the love
and affection Haribhau had for society, his dedication and honesty,
the leadership of this organization was entrusted to Haribhau Rathod.
“Hope blooms in mind, Revolution shall come upBy forming army of Denotified Tribes and Nomadics.That self respecting Gormati revolutionaryWears out himself for community like Chandan
25
That brave Banjari walks the difficult way fromKashmir to Kanyakumari”“He yearns for progress of Community,Development of community”He has bravery of Columbus,Revolution flows through his bloodHe is really, really true friend of community
Since Denotified tribes and Nomadic Tribes were deprived of
Justice, they got entangled in web of various problems. There was
hanging sword on the very existence of the community. Haribhau
prepared himself to lead the community. Haribhau shouldered great
responsibility of making propaganda for expanding Kranti Dal and
create social awareness. Kranti Dal was a ray of hope.
Haribhau used to be alert and aware to ensure that there
should not be any injustice on any part of society and nobody should
be entangled or bound due to injustice. He was deadly against
injustice. Even though his personality is calm and quiet, and facial
expressions are tender, basically his personality is fiery, spitting fire
against injustice. Everybody knows this.
When Haribhau was accounts officer in MSEB, he ensured that
injustice was made to MSEB workers was removed. Haribhau
always used to consider issues of the community members as his
own issues; they may be of cane suger workers or families migrating
to Mumbai. He always used to solve them with positive frame of
mind.
26
PhotoHaribhau’s nature is to study and to think deeply about any
issue. He likes to viewing any matter sensitively, analyze it and study
it. He speaks less, thinks a lot and brings his thoughts into actions.
His articles began to be published in newspapers. He developed
liking for writing just like liking for reading. He took time off for writing
issues of community. He used to write in night and show the articles
to his wife. If Kamalatai (his wife) praised the articles, he would be
very pleased. She was the first reader of his articles.
Literature is the true mirror of society. Literature is very
powerful. It can topple kingdom. It can charge equations of power.
Haribhau understood importance of Literature. Shri Sudhakar Naik,
famous author and journalist of Banjara Community became Chief
Minister of Maharashtra. Shri Naik was fond of Literature. He had
graced the Chairmanship of literary convention. Haribhau stated
writing continuously on his lines. This resulted in publishing of two
books full of noble thoughts “Laman, Banjara and Vanjari” and “BJP
and Denotified Tribes and Nomadic Tribes”.
If we are to eradicate poverty of our society, we must sacrifice,
become selfless and struggle. Haribhau knew this very well. He
always used to feel that we are obliged to our society and we must
repay the obligation by doing something for our society.
27
The Bahujan Samaj in India is caught under crushing pressure
of castism and its condition is very horrible. Great injustice is being
done continuously on Bahujan Samaj. The Bahujan Samaj could not
challenge the established social structure up to the expected degree
due to lack of education.
It was need of hour and desire to give respectable position to
Bahujan Samaj that the Samaj gets united. Many thinkers had
thoughts of changes. Hon’ble Makhramji Pawar, Advocate Prakash
Ambedkar, Nilu Phule, Haribhau Rathod, Mrs. Thakur, Shantaram
Pandere and other Bahujan Samaj workers united together on one
dias and formed Bahujan Mahasangh on 15.03.1995. Makharam
Pawar had generated a storm through the Bahujan Mahasangh. He
was a strong fighter and had become famous at that time.
Haribhau Rathod played a great role in spreading the
movement of Bahujan Mahasangh and making it all pervasive.
Nobody shall forget his honesty, dedication and organizing skill
behind strengthening the movement.
Haribhau organized forces along with Makhram Pawar, Nilu
Phule. At that time, reputed reformists like G.R. Khairnar had started
public agitation against corruption. Haribhau joined the agitation. He
organized public addresses and meetings of Shri Khairnar at Akola,
Yawatmal, Daryapur, and Jalgaon. Haribhau has been fighting to
create all pervasive and strong organization of community.
Everybody had objective to ensure that the Banjara Community gets
justice. Haribhau and Makhram Pawar organized programs for
gathering wide support to Bahujan Samaj. Even though they were
28
two different persons, both had same object: - to develop community
and lay down strong foundation for the community.
Shri Vasantrao Naik and Shri Sudhakar Naik took untiring
efforts for development of Banjara Community. They brought reforms
in the community. However they felt the need of expediting the
transformation, because transformation should not be for limited
period. It should be permanent. Momentary transformation cannot
give proper direction to community. It was just natural that it needs to
address fundamental issues like organizing society, raise voice
against injustice, to make the community aware of its pride and self-
esteem etc.
“He comes from the boundaries with the ray of hopeLike Sun. He has aim of changing the community for revolution”
Haribhau was strong supporter of transformation. He decided
to commence social service. He became active worker for organising
the community. For ensuring proper unity and organization of the
community, it should have some idol. Every member should recite
name of such idol, founder, main promotor of culture of community
and revolutionary Saint. It was also felt that if two or more members
of Banjara Community come together and greet each other “Jai
Sevalal”, it will go in a long was to unite the society and protect its
culture. With this noble object, Haribhau requested Religious Leader
Ramrao Maharaj to come at Dadar and announced “Jai Sevadal”.
Even today if two Banjara persons meet each other, they greet
each other as “Jai Sevadal”.
29
Haribhau used to be very unhappy on seeing extreme poverty
and difficulties faced by them for meeting two ends. He used to think,
why we should live this life of humiliation and insults? Up to when we
will be exploited in the name of caste? He began to feel urge of
doing something to fight against the situation.
Haribhau’s domestic situation was poor, but he was very
confident and firm. He was aware of his situation and obtained
education with great difficulty. He faced lots of hardships. After this,
his efforts and blessings of parents, he got job in MSEB, but he was
not satisfied in the job for long time because he was interested in
serving society.
The expected progress of the community, expected
organization was far away. Haribhau found very difficult to carry on
employment and social service simultaneously. He continued social
work but he realized that it was not possible to fight properly for
Denotified Tribes and Nomadic Tribes and remove injustice on the
society and also to carry on employment. Hence he had two
alternatives, either to carry on employment or to resign.
He faced the dilema. Is it more appropriate to carry on this
employment or to serve the society for reducing hardships of
community? As a result of these thoughts, the stability of
employment was lost. He felt that it was inappropriate for him to
enjoy happily when the community was facing hardship. Hence he
resigned from his job in 1995. This shows greatness of his mind and
love and affection towards Denotified Tribes and Nomadic Tribes.
After resigning, Haribhau took oath of community revolution and
devoted himself to the task.
30
Bahujan Samaj was galloping fast in Maharashtra. Haribhau
was free to work for full time, but some chatter box people thought ill
of this sacrifice and said “This is a trivial thing. A person is of some
worth only if he is doing some job, otherwise or he if has resigned
from his job, he is of no use.”
This is a wrong concept in people’s mind. He left the job for
welfare of community, to serve the community, but he learnt that
same community is now inflicting mental torture to him. Haribhau
used to become upset because of these thoughts. Some people in
community began to talk ill about him without understanding his
sacrifice, but Haribhau came out of this. He faced this challenge
bravely. He had studied the mentality of the community thoroughly.
Before resigning, he had understood probable dangers. Haribhau
used to tell that he is now experiencing these.
It is very difficult to give justice to community without joining
politics. The political representation is true indicator of progress of
community. Dr. Ambedkar said “Political power is the master key
with which we can open and every lock.” The society can be taken
ahead only through politics and Haribhau knew this very well. Even
though Haribhau did not have any political back ground or financial
support, Haribhau decided to contest State Assembly Election from
Digras in 1995. However, the people did not accept him as he was
“outsider”. He was defeated in this election.
Haribhau was under severe stress, because he did not have job
and had lost election, but still he continued to serve community.
During this period, his wife Kamalatai supported him very well. She
31
helped him to come out of mental stress. Younger brother shashikant
also helped him.
All candidates of Bahujan Mahasangh lost Assembly Election in
1995. Since Haribhau contested election from Digras, intellectual
differences arose. Haribhau left Bahujan Samaj permanently.
Those were stormy days in Haribhau’s life. He did not have
any option than to create an effective forum as a social worker. His
life became unstable. He toyed with idea of taking up employment
again. Some people from the community met Shri Gopinath Munde
to see that Shri Haribhau gets employment. Attempts were made
that he joins a job at Ratnagiri but Haribhau firmly decided not to take
up employment again. He took a firm decision to throw the hat in the
ring for the work of community, no matter what sort of treatment he
receives at the hand of the society.
Haribhau began to ponder on the situation of society. During
this time, Shri Laxman Gaikwad, author of book “Uchalya” had taken
out a morcha “Bombabomb” (shouting and creating noise) on
09.08.1997. Haribhau contributed lion’s share in that morcha.
Haribhau’s supporters participated in morcha in large numbers. As a
result of this event, Shri Gopinath Munde, the then Dy. Chief Minister
was highly impressed. He took note of Haribhau’s work.
An object, an aim gives meaning to life. Life without object,
without aim, is a flower without scent. An aimless person cannot
achieve anything. A person following his aim religiously can transform
his barran life into a garden. However, it requires strong will power.
If you want to show the world that you can do something extra
ordinary, you must have grit, determination, confidance and positive
32
will power. You must be always active, work hard, focus on you aim
and concentrate on your object and face the difficulties.
Right from beginning, Haribhau was crazy for achieving his aim.
He was ready to face any difficulties for achieving his aim. He never
deviated from his objective because he had strong will power.
Haribhau never bothered about critism of people while
achieving his objective. His used to think that critism and opposition
are rewards that a capable person gets and he took a giant leap from
zero to big world.
He was honest, loyal to community, clean in his mind. He
planned well and always thought about society only. He used to work
hard with enthusiasm for solving any social issue. Shri Gopinath
Munde took note of this and appointed Haribhau as his additional
personal secretary. This appointment benefited the DNTs and
Nomads.
It is very difficult to achieve success in life without active co-
operation from others. When the iron touches philosopher’s stone, it
becomes gold. The same gold is converted into ornaments and
these ornaments decorate a person.
This is well illustrated by appointment of Haribahu made by
Hon’ble Shri. Gopinath Munde.
People around us are very different from each other. Choosing
a right person out of them is not a job of ordinary person. A genuine
goldsmith is required to identify true gold. Shri Gopinath Munde was
a genuine political goldsmith capable of identifying genuine capable
persons in society. These political goldsmiths supported Banjara
Community.
33
After Haribhau was appointed as Additional Personal Secretary
in the office of Shri Gopinath Munde, Haribhau’s life got a entirely
different and important turn.
Haribhau now concentrated fully towards Banjara Kranti Dal.
Strong foundation of social work depends on strong organization
having strong foundations and pressure groups. Haribhau got golden
opportunities to expand the Banjara Kranti Dal. Haribhau took full
advantage of this oppertunity.
PhotoHaribhau is loyal to community. He started attempts to
strengthen his social work. He got support of many dedicated
workers through Banjara Kranti Dal. Many workers from Banjara
Community started work for Banjara Kranti Dal.
Jagatguru Saint Sevalal Maharaj was born in this Denotified
Tribes and Nomadic Tribes. He united this community in one thread
and enriched peculiar culture of this community. Another great leader
of the community Shri Vasantrao Naik contributed to a large extent to
improve the fate and lot of this community. Shri Vasantrao’s death
deprived the community of his support and guidance. It appeared as
if the community was again set to be disorganized, because a feeling
started spreading in community that whether they can survive in this
20th Century which is full of transformation, technology, information
technology etc.
34
Haribhau used to feel very sad because of such bad situation of
the community. He started touring for expending his social work. In
the beginning, Banjara Kranti Dal was known only to urban area and
employees, but maximum members of this Denotified Tribes and
Nomadic Tribes reside in dense Jungle and hilly areas. Hence
Haribhau started opening branches of Kranti Dal at vatious places so
that the revolution reaches to maximum people. He went on doing
the work of organization, education, spreading social and politcal
awareness among the members for the purpose of bringing
intellectual revolution in the community by way of spreading the
network BanjaraKranti Dal up to every caravan, pada (small basti),
zuggi (hutments) pal (small shelters) of Denotified Tribes and
Nomadic Tribes. The community started feeling pride that there is
somebody (Shri Haribhau Rathod) to take care and to patronize the
community after Kakasaheb (Kalelkar).
PhotoHaribhau began to feel the urge from bottom of his heart that as
the tradition of doing injustice on the community is still not over, the
community has to raise strong voice aginst the injustice. It is natural
to raise mutiny against the system of the establishment which takes
away all rights of the community.
“Sound of Revolution blowsRevolution of self respect of Denotified Tribes and Nomads
35
“Jai Ho Revolution”My brothers and sisters, let us rise, let us takeOath and join the revolution”
He motivated the community to unite and fight against adverse
conditions.
News spread everywhere that Kranti Dal is a fighter social
organization fighting for community of Denotified Tribes and Nomadic
Tribes.
Haribhau was a basically a social worker. He used the Kranti
Dal only for social work. His true object was only that the Banjara
Community should stand firmly on its own and be strong.
He took a “Dhadak Morcha” on 5/1/1998 on Mantralaya,
Mumbai. Nearely 50,000 Banjara’s from all parts of Maharashtra
dressed in their traditional attire participated in this “Dhadak Morcha”
on Mantralaya. This morcha showed his organizational capacity and
strength to the world. The rulers also had to take note of this.
On 5th January of every year, a morcha of banjaras is taken
from Azad Maidan to Mantralaya to invite attention of the government
to the injustice made to the community. Lacs of people from
Denotified Tribes and Nomadic Tribes gather from all states of India
and huge sea of people gathers on Azad Maidan. This morcha gives
strength to Denotified Tribes and Nomadic Tribes to develop
resistance power against injustice, to fight against injustice and to
organize the community.
Many strong workers of Kranti Dal like Devidas Rathod and
various members of Denotified Tribes and Nomadic Tribes have been
36
raising their voice from various states under the guidance and
leadership of various Banjara leaders as if it is the battle of their
existence.
These workers simply did not bother about anything for raising
voice against injustice. They were possessed by the aim of
development of community, bringing awareness in community.
Agitation or movement can be for any purpose. Its
effectiveness depends on the leadership and other qualities of the
leader. The leadership of Banjaras has no parallel, no comparison.
The leadership does not have any discrimination or wicked or
crooked motive in their mind.
Haribhau’s nature was transparent. During the course of his
speech when he would get emotional, his eyes would reflect his
anger and fire against the injustice on the community. Whenever he
got emotional due to pathetic situation of the community, ignorance in
the community and its unorganized manner, tears would roll down
from his eyes. One can see intense nature of a social worker
devoted to duty in Haribhau’s behaviuour.
The community makes its livelihood in vicinity of nature, but it
has become listless. It is extremely difficult to organize the
community and have one say. Haribhau was facing biggest problem
of unifying members of community having different points of view.
“Haribhau, a great precious diamond in Denotified Tribesand Nomadic Tribes and semi Nomadic Tribes, madeus aware, knowledgeable. If we all unite,then flowers will bloom and sun will
37
rise, driving away darkness.” Haribhau convinced the society about importance of unity.
Regarding educational backwardness of the community, he says,
“Work hard, struggle, face difficulties but learn you must”. For
keeping existence of the society alive in future, we must educate our
children. We cannot get rid of our inertia without education.
Haribhau’s commitment to social work is very strong. Affection
towards social situation is his pet subject. Shri Vasantrao Naik was
his idol. He has been working for creating educational awareness in
the community. His follow up with the government regarding
educational grant and scholarship to students is worth mentioning.
Haribhau spread these valuable thoughts in the community: -
“As a result of lack of education among Denotified Tribes and
Nomadic Tribes, many traditional bad customs and rituals are still in
existence. Blind faith still prevails in community to a large extent.
Due to this, awareness of science, scientific thinking and knowledge
is yet to reach the community. Under these circumstances,
development of the community is not possible. Worshiping humanity
in human being is real worship. It is totally wrong to think that god is
pleased when animals are sacrificed.
“Do whatever works you get strengthen your financial position.
Save money, reduce your expenses and be far away from addictions
and vices”. Our community is still engrossed in illiteracy, blind faith,
indebtedness etc. The community is still far away from development
due to lack of resources for production, means of production,
employment. This situation must change.
38
One can see that Haribhau is taking untiring efforts to ensure
that our community comes in the competition and withstands the
competetion.
Many intellectuals supported work done by Haribhau for
ensuring that the Banjara Culture is noted and appreciated at
National level. However, some leaders did not like the flow of
success of Haribhau’s Banjara Kranti Dal and started speaking ill
about him. Despite this, Haribhau continued his work.
An organization “All India Banjara Seva Sangha” was in
operation prior to formation of Banjara Kranti Dal. However, due to
new strong team of Banjara Kranti Dal, Banjara Kranti Dal became
more popular. This created keen competition and difference of
opinion between these two organisations. However, Haribhau kept
the Banjara Kranti Dal intact.
The youth began to feel that Kranti Dal is their own forum.
Haribhau took his decision after careful planning and considering the
probable dangers or probable consequences of the decisions. It is
the need of time that the person who works in society should be
ready to accept brick bats along with flowers. Haribhau has these
virtues. Makhram Pawar, Ranjit Naik, Raju Naik, Amarsingh Tilawat
and other famous workers also started working along with Haribhau
for bringing improvement in Banjara Community.
There were difference of opinion between Haribhau and Seva
Sangh, but their minds were not separate. Ranjit Naik expected that
Haribhau’s movement should give justice to the community and
should take positive steps to unite the community. Ranjit Naik did not
agree with some policies of Haribhau. Similarly he thought that
39
Haribhau should not become alone. He wrote a letter to Haribhau
with this and some other purpose on 29.09.1999 explaining his views.
The letter read as under:-
“You have created your identity as a good worker having
positive attitude through your hard work.
“On this ground, we have met you frequently and Discussed many issues with you”“For us this is your true identity and Another identity is of Great leader having exclusive And incredible powers of pulling crowds”
How is it that you have created your identity as a leader of
Banjara community and a thourough gentleman?
We know you as personality giving special contribution to
Banjara movement and social empowerment to Banjaras”.
This is an extract of the letter written by Shri Ranjit Naik to
Haribhau. As the letter is very lengthy, we cannot reproduce it here.
However, this letter was replied by Haribhau. The reply is as follow.
“I received your letter on 29.09.1999. I treat this letter as a
historical document. The issues raised by you in this letter are very
important and are connected with movement of Banjara Community.
I am trying to reply this letter seriously. In a nutshell, I hereby record
that the issues raised by you are not motivated politically but have
been raised in the interest of our community.
40
I respect some senior and great persons from Banjara
Community. You are top most among them. You are source of my
inspiration and you are very respectable personality.
When we got introduced in 1982, the dispute Banjara Vs
Vanjara had begun. I saw that you had honestly accepted you
mistake at the time of giving some explanation during the program
conducted at Saloi, Gorai Beach, Mumbai.
The dispute between Banjaras and Vanjaras was sorted out
due to your honest efforts. This is mentioned in the report of Dr.
Wadhwa Committee. This is a historical matter. I have frequently
seen your sympathy towards poor people. I am highly impressed by
you and I have become your fan.
On seeing your passion and organizational skill, I also thought
that you should shoulder the responsibility of All India Banjara Seva
Sangh. Hence during the committee meeting at Delhi in April 1996,
despite your reluctance I opposed Hon’ble Shri Sudhakarrao Naik
and suggested your name and next day morning I met Sudhakar Rao
Naik and tried to convince him honesty that you should get
Chairman’s position.
During that time, existence and foundation of Banjara Kranti Dal
was not strong. Even though issues like Banjara-Vanjara dispute,
question of chhapparband comminity, percentage of reservation,
promotion of back class employees, issue of roster of employees
rehabilitation of earth quake victims, and many other issues were
sorted out under the banner of Banjara Kranti Dal, the Kranti Dal had
not reached the rural area. I tried my level best to sort out these
issues and my community brethren responded very well. The
41
movement of Mahasangh through MLA Makharam Pawar and my co-
operation to this movement is certainly an historic event. I am aware
that you were feeling very happy.
I realized from discussions with you, that our parting of ways
has given you lot of pain and unhappiness. I am feeling very
unhappy for the same even today.
However, you are aware that the subsequent events happening
in my life were purely accidental and took place under certain
circumstances.
I honestly accept that after I joined office of Hon’ble Dy. Chief
Minister Gopinathji Munde as additional private secretary, Kranti Dal
has grown by leaps and bounds. However, it is incorrect to say that
Kranti Dal has grown only because I was Additional Private Secretary
to Dy. Chief Minister, because the solid work done by me cannot be
hidden or ignored, even though one may try to do so. Following
things have been accomplished through Banjara Kranti Dal:-
According status of religious place to Poharadevi, creating separate
desk at Mantralaya for Denotified Tribes and Nomadic Tribes,
increasing reservation for Denotified Tribes and Nomadic Tribes from
2.5% to 3%. Sabharwal matter, morchas taken on 5 th January, 1998
and another morcha taken in 1999 and creation of awareness in
community with help of these morchas.
Achievements of Banjara Kranti Dal like handling issues of
victims of earth quake, stopping and preventing the torture of
backward class employees and officers by police by falsely
implicating them in cases without any reason, to publicise injustice
42
being done to backward class employees and officers and ensure
that they get justice etc cannot be ignored.
Some people in the community do oppose me. They do not
oppose me openly. Their opposition is hidden and politically
motivated. They oppose me to maintain their existence. It is also
true that they are worried wether I shall turn Banjara Community in
favor of Bhartiya Janata Party. Indian mentality is impressed by
traditional leadership. However, I am not heir to any political family
and hence some people are not ready to accept my leadership and
they shall not be ready to accept it. I am aware of this.
Some people will certainly oppose me even if I do good work
for the community and I am aware of the same. I take my steps only
after studying these things, and try to handle these things by handling
all people by love and affection and nobody opposes to the extent
possible.
The efforts taken by you for rebuilding the Seva Sangha are
definitely praise worthy. I read the principles preached by you and
guidance given by you with utmost care and I felt I am in troubles.
On one hand I could not oppose Seva Sangha. As I found myself in
this situation, I went on attending all programmes arranged for
rebuilding the Sangha. I tried to control my workers during the
programmes organized at Mumbai, Aurangabad and Akola. Last
year, during the meeting organized at Aurangabad for organizing
union of workers, I realized one thing. Some people did not like that I
was praised by some speakers present on Dias. Actually the process
of rebuilding of Seva Sangha had not begun. At that time I realized
43
that some people are bound to oppose me in future. Accordingly
some people kept on opposing me.
Under the disguise of Seva Sangha, efforts are being done
systematically to put me down. I remained with you out of love and
affection for you and also with keen desire to ensure that Seva
Sangha should grow, spread throughout India and should also remain
aloof from politics, I am with you and I shall be with you. At times I
have played second fiddle and have swallowed insults, but I am with
you and shall be with you.
At present, Kranti Dal is operational only in Maharashtra but in
future; it can be a PAN Indian organization. At present there is a
suggestion to convert the “Banjara Kranti Dal” into political party or
delete word Banjara and to convert the “Kranti Dal” into political
Party. The suggestion is certainly praiseworthy. However, the
reputation of Kranti Dal should be such that all political parties and
government should be scared of Kranti Dal. The Kranti Dal shall be
operational as a pressure group. It is imperative that the community
shall be politically divided. Nobody can stop it. However, for
ensuring welfare of the community let us try to remain united socially.
Please remove the fear from your mind that I shall fight with
Hon’ble Shri. Makhram Pawar. I respect Shri. Makharam Pawar and
shall continue to do so. There is no reason that we should quarrel
socially. I assure you that we shall take up issues of social wellbeing
of the community and shall work together with him.
Even though you do not have political ambition, some people
advice you from political point of view. You are confused by their
advices. Some people are hatching conspiracy so as to ensure that
44
Kranti Dal should not grow, I should not get importantance in Harijan
Community, so they are pulling my leg. Some people are using my
shoulder put their gun and kill Kranti Dal. I honestly advise you to be
aware of them.
I do want to do social work and get political advantage out it. I
also see that the community benefits. I am working with a view to
ensure benefit to the community and there cannot be any difference
of opinion in this respect.
I am of the opinion that social work and politics are
complementary to each other. I believe that if we engage only in
social work, we cannot achieve economic and political progress of the
community. Hence I have to behave according to the situation and I
am going to behave accordingly.
Kranti Dal has achieved fame as a popular organization. There
is a saying in Marathi. “One may try to hide the cock, but it is going to
make noise.” The position is same in case of the organization (Kranti
Dal). Despite any stiff resistance, it is going to rise to fame.
Let us remain united for solving community’s issues. From the
point of view of politics, it is necessary that the community remains
united. In future, it is unlikely that one party can form the government
may be in center or state. Hence I honestly believe that it is
necessary to increase representation of our community in politics as
well as in leadership. My view is clear, my opinion is clear. I am
ready to discuss this issue and find out a way.
With best wishes (letter ends)
45
One can see Haribhau’s affection about the movement as a
frank and forthrigh worker. He came across may people who were
trying to see that Haribhau does not get importance / fame / success.
However, it is a fact that Haribhau overcame this idiotic opposition
and did not stop his noble deed of social work. Attempts may be
made to ignore his work, but it is impossible to ignore his contribution
and not to mention his name in constitution of modern community.
Photo
Banjara Culture comprises of rich dialect “Gormati”, typical
attire, celebration of particular festivals and culture, Gorepanchayat,
Nasab, Dhavalo and attractive ornaments and historical heritage.
The culture is independent and is highly reputed.
Banjara Culture guides as to how to live and express oneself in
artistic and cultural manner. Even today we can view the Banjara
Culture in films and TV Serials. However, it is regrettable that this
rich and peculiar culture is being used only as “Fashion Show”. It is
necessary to protect this culture in the time to come.
The attempts made by Haribhau to celebrate important festivals
and occasions like Holi, Teej even in urban area for protecting the
Banjara Culture are commendable. He has been protector of Banjara
Culture and Gorepanchayat.
Photo
46
One can see Banjara Culture in rural caravan, nagla, tola, pal
as well as every city.
“Banajara, my communitySelf illuminating star among many stars’Various states, various Padas, but one communitySevalal, Jethala, Samki Mata areour gods; we are brave children of Lakhiya, their deeds are pious and the history is its witnessGorboli is our language, sweeter than AmrutIt has many pearls, many diamonds, and depth of an oceanSevagad and kasara poharasi are our religious placesOur attire is Ati, Chunari, Chudamani, Ghagra.It is beautiful and it beatifies us Our songs of life are melodious,Daff, Thokli, Nagara are our music instruments Sun conquered the darkness and rose from HunakiWoke us from long sleep and made revolutionOur cattle’s graze in the fields Even in barren lands, even in dark, our livesAre happyDisciples flow from various directions and become big crowdTo see and offer prayers to Saint Ramrao(Ref: Vedana)
Haribhau is born in this typical Banjara Community and is great
worshipper of culture. Haribhau telecasted a TV serial “New
Directions” on “Sahyadri” channel for teaching typical skills and art of
this Banjara Culture which expresses studied culture of life through
47
“Dhavalo” and lyrics, progress achieved by the community, and also
to present burning problems of the community to the public. This
serial presented true picture of Banjara Community and became very
popular. The serial included lyrics in Gormati language along with
Marathi lyrics. Typical and attractive attire were designed for the
artists in the serial. Haribhau was executive producer and Mandar
Khanvilkar was head of technical aspects of the serial.
The TV serial team visited various places like Yawatmal,
Chalisgaon, Khandesh, Akola etc. and studied the situation (of
Banjaras) located there. A set was erected at Bhoiwada near Vasai
and the shooting of the serial was completed.
Haribhau and Mandar were successful in presenting the plight
of Denotified Tribes and Nomadic Tribes in a heart touching manner
in this serial of 265 episodes.
This serial was being telecasted every Tuesday and
Wednesday at 8.30 P.M, The serial got very good response from the
viewers. However, the community, which was the subject matter of
the serial could not view this serial because of extreme poverty and
lack of attention by Government, the community is far away from
development. When the community does not have one time food,
how they can enjoy less priority matters like TV?
I could not watch the serial because I did not have TV set at my
place.
Had I been able to watch the serial, I would have been
extremely happy and motivated. Watching the serial would have
strengthened in my mind. However, even now I experience the pain
as to how poverty smashes one’s dreams. This TV serial created
48
new hopes and enthusiasm in Denotified Tribes and Nomadic Tribes.
It created a deep impression in the community. Haribhau took lot of
efforts for the serial.
Vijay Khavilkar produced on act play “Ganacha Sapan” (Gana’s
dreams) based on story written by Haribhau. This one act play was
heart touching, it won first prize at state level competition. This
success gave boost to ambitious of Vijay Khanvilkar. They decided
to produce a TV Serial on this subject. Since Haribhau belonged to
this community, this task was very easy for him and Vijay Khanvilkar,
Mandar Khanvilkar to present the pains suffered by this community.
This serial was a milestone and an important event in
presenting pains of this community engrossed and bound in Davalo.
Ulka Kulkarni, Radhika Borkar, Mandar Khanvilkar, Upendra Date,
Aradhana Deshpande, Roopa Srisat, Kamlesh Sawant, Ramesh
Padwal and others acted in this serial. This serial was instrumental in
changing situation of Denotified Tribes and Nomadic Tribes. This
serial was very important for Haribhau. He was successful in
achieving very popular and stable position in the community.
PhotoHon’ble Smt. Sonia Gandhi in attire of Banjaran.
Haribhau went on working hard with the object of development
of community, to create awareness in community and to ensure that
the Government pays attention to the community.
49
He was emotionally connected with community. When he was
becoming famous as leader through the medium of Kranti Dal, he got
many demands of communities approved from the Government.
However he thinks that considering the pathetic situation of the
community, the economic, political and educational standard of the
community cannot be improved even if such minor demands of
community are approved by the Government. Haribhau thinks that it
is the need of the hour that the community must get concessions and
facilities in center also in the same manner as they have got
concessions in the state. Hence, Haribhau discussed the demand of
inclusion of Denotified Tribes and Nomadic Tribes in either third list or
scheduled Tribes and remove this injustice before justice
Venkatachallya commission during the tenure of the then popular
Prime Minister Shri Atal Bihari Vajapayee.
Photo
Hon’ble Shri Gopinath Munde rendered very good co-operation
to Haribhau to enable him to have firm grip on social work. Politics
and social work are complimentary to each other. Considering the
social work done by Haribhau, many sections in the community
began to feel that Haribhau should contest elections to the
parliament. During the mega convention of DNT’s and Nomads held
at Pandharpur, the then Hob’ble Prime Minister Shri. Atal Bihari
Vajpayeeji praised Haribhu’s work and called him “Karya Samrat
50
Banjara Nayak”. There was huge thunder of applauge. This was
respect to and appreciation of his work.
Haribhau was trying to get hold in politics with the help of Shri
Gopinath Munde. Even though Haribhau did not inherit any political
connection, he was entrusted with the responsibility of Yawatmal
Parliamentary constituency. He did not have sufficient financial
resources. He had only one issue “Social Work”. Haribhau contested
the elections as BJP candidate with the help of Gopinath Munde’s
support. Haribhau’s worker worked hard.
The voters elected him on the basis of need of change and his
hard work. He defeated Uttamrao Patil, Congress candidate by huge
margin.
Haribhau’s victory is victory of social work over politics. It is
really great matter that he won the politics on the strength of social
work. Social work is always more important than the politics. Now a
days, the politics has stooped to very low level. It has become game
of casteism, money and political inheritance. Hence it is surprising
that social work should defeat the politics.
Even though Haribhau was elected as Member of Parliament,
he did not forget his social work. Many Members of Parliament (MP)
of Banjara Community have been appointed Ministers prior to
Haribhaus’s election as MP, but Haribhau is the first MP to say “Jay
Sevalal”. His name shall be permanently recorded in the history of
Banjara Community. It is an undisputable truth that Haribhau has
lion’s share in making the Banjaras presence felt at national level.
After the brutal murder of Smt. Indira Gandhi, riots took place in
India. Sikhs were targeted by the riotors. 70% of the victims of these
51
riots were Banjaras. Innocent Banjaras were victimized. Haribhau
convinced the Central Government about this serious matter. When
Nanavati commission was disposing this matter, Haribhau came
forward. He made the Government to give special help to the people
who lost their lives in the riots.
Whatever may be the issue, Haribhau shall come forward to
tackle it if it is connected with society, social work.
Haribhau not only fights for his community, but he fights for
issues of other communities also. He does not forget that the issues
may be of DNTs and Nomads, but other communities are equally
concerned with the same.
When Haribhau was MP of BJP, many farmers of Maharashtra,
especially Vidarbha were committing suicides. The farmers were
facing serious issues of indebtedness, barran land, and cruel money
lenders were forcing the farmers to commit suicide.
During that time, BJP-Shivsena had started fight in
Maharashtra against these suicides. Stalwarts from BJP-Shivsena
like Gulabrao Gavande, Divakar Rawate, Ramdas Kadam, Hon’ble
Uddhavaji Thakerey, Hon’ble Gopinath Munde, Hon’ble Nitin
Gadakari, Haribhau Rathod, Mahadev Shivankar, Bhavana Gawali
were fighting for farmers.
Haribhau Rathod and other MPs from Vidharbha met the then
Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh and requested him to waive
loans granted to farmers in Vidarbha.
Haribhau pressed the demand of conversion of route of
“Shakuntala Express”, a train running between Murtujapur and
Yawatmal from Narrow Guage to Broad Gauge. He also pressed the
52
demand of starting train services “Wardha-Yawatmal-Digras-
Poharadevi-Nanded” because the people staying in that area did not
have speedy conveyance between Nanded and Nagpur.
Haribhau belonged to carvan and he reached Parliament, but
did not have snob of MP. The worker in his mind was strong and
active. Normally a person forgets history when the situation changes.
He gets engrossed in his future. He behavior changes totally, but this
does not apply to Haribhau. He did not have ego and pride of being
an MP. The pains and suffering of DNTs and Nomads did not allow
him to rest in parliament. He never ignored problems of his
community. When he was MP he gave a memorandum to the then
Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh on behalf of Banjara Kranti Dal
at Delhi. The Memorandum discussed various issues, problems and
demands of DNTs, Nomads and Banjara.
Photo
The demands were:-
1. Third schedule should be prepared for DNTs and Nomads.
2. Banjara (Gormati) language should be included in 8th schedule
of Indian constitution.
3. The students belonging to DNTs and Nomads should be given
scholarship from primary education to higher education.
4. Statue of Lakkisha Banjara, the guru of Banjaras should be
erected in the premises of Parliament.
53
Haribhau met the Prime Minister in connection with these
demands. He was accompanied by MPs Ravindra Nayak, Swroop
Singh Nayak, Omprakash Nayak, Charan Singh Nayak.
This news was covered by District edition of news paper daily
Lokmat “Hellow Washim” under the titile “Delegation meets P.M.
under leadership of MP Haribhau Rathod”. Incidently, news of
selection of my poem was printed along with this news on
24.05.2006. My joy knew no bounds.
The established classes have taken undue benefit of instability
of this community, its ignorance and exploited them to the hilt and
deprived them of development and progress. The Banjara
community is large and pervasive and hence its problems are also
large and pervasive. Haribhau felt that unless a forum becomes
available to pressurize the Government about these demands, the
attention of the Government cannot be attracted. This forum can be
used to unite the community and create awareness among the
community members. With this view, Haribhau organised “Banjara
Mahapanchayat” at Delhi. Many leaders from various states, social
workers were present in this Mahapanchayat. The special presence
of Shri Sharad Pawar, the then Union Agriculture Minister was worth
noticing.
Photo Photo
Haribhau Rathod giving Memorandum Shri. Sharad Pawar and
other
to Hon’ble Shri. Sharad Pawar dignitaries on the dias.
54
The DNT and Nomad Community have been overcoming
various obstacles. It is living its life away from normal flow of life.
Even then, the community has been facing injustice. The officers and
staff from this community who somehow make two ends meet; also
have to suffer this injustice. It is peculiar that when one injustice is
removed, another is ready to replace it.
One Mr. Vijay Ghogre had filed a petition in Mumbai High Court
against the reservations in promotions to DNTs and Nomads. Hence
the promotions to DNTs and Nomads in class one and two were
stopped. This was a cruel injustice of the community and it was a
clear danger signal that the new generation of the community shall
not be seen in bureaucracy.
If this injustice is not opposed strongly, the future generation
shall not pardon us. Haribhau had lion’s share in the fight against
injustice.
55
This community was leading in engaging in gurilla war against
the British Rulers. The British realized that this is a brave and fighting
community and it is opposing them. Hence in the year 1871 they
declared this freedom fighter community as Criminal Caste. This was
motivated by selfishness of the Britishers. Similarly, since the
established people did not want to accept the leadership of this
community, they branded this community as criminal.
Many people from this community have sacrificed their lives
during the freedom struggle with British rulers. However, this
community was not referred to as freedom fighter or patriots. When
Pandit Nehru realized this fact, he repealed the Criminal Act on
31.08.1952 and relieved them from this Draconian Act. Since then
this community is known as Denotified Tribe (DNT).
This community has been deprived of human rights for nearly
81 years. A question arises as to how Dr. Ambedkar forgot to give
justice to this community at the time of drafting the constitution.
Schedules were prepared for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled
Tribes, but no provision or Scheduled list or law was made for DNTs
and Nomads. This is a very painful and sad matter.
Kaka Kalekar committee recommend to enact special program
for educational, economic development and rehabilitation of this
community. This community was not organized; there was no leader
or representative to fight for this community. So instead of
development, this community was ignored.
A commission was constituted on 23.10.2003 for studying this
issue, but it did not submit any report. Hence it was automatically
wound up on 21.11.2004. The situation of DNTs and Nomads went
56
from bad to worse and hence it became need of the hour to make
some provisions for them.
The community became united and aware of its rights to some
extent. The psychological condition of a person awaking from sleep it
not certain. Hence the political parties felt that some steps should be
taken for this community. Haribhau was constantly following up the
issues of this community at central level.
UPA Government constituted Renke commission on
14.03.2005. It was possible to ascertain true situation of DNTs and
Nomads through this commission.
Hon’ble Balkrishna Renke, chief of this commission worked
very hard to ascertain the issues and problems of DNTs and
Nomads. He personally visited many caravans, wadi, pal, nagla etc,
studied the situation there of very carefully. When he was thinking
about their welfare and removal of injustice, he found that even in 21st
Century the community is still in deep slumber.
Haribhau who was working hard for this community from his
heart was bound to feel affection for this Renke commission.
Haribhau had reached Parliament from this community. He went on
demanding strongly that the Central Government should take strong
steps for achieving progress of this community.
Haribhau wrote a letter to the then Prime Minister Hon’ble Shri
Manmohan Singh on 18.08.2005. This letter explained the issues
and problems of the community. Haribhau demanded that third list
should be prepared and implemented for DNTs and Nomads for their
progress and development. The DNTs and Nomads should get
reservations on same lines of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled
57
Tribes and such other demands were submitted vide this letter. In
addition to this, he aloso wrote a letter dated 22.08.2006 to the then
Minister of Social Justice Hon’ble Smt. Meera Kumar requesting her
to take steps for progress and development of DNTs and Nomads.
Haribhau is not a person who thinks “Now that I have become
MP, my responsibilities are over”. He always took one or the other
step for the progress of the community.
Now Haribhau totally devoted himself for “Renke commission”.
The year 2007-08 was very difficult for Haribhau. He used to
say that if Renke commission’s recommendations are implemented,
then only the community shall survive. It is a question of life and
death of the community, hence it is absolutely necessary to put up a
united fight for this, but it is difficult for them. These feeling used to
create waves in Haribhau’s mind.
Even before Renke commission was constituted, Haribhau was
firm on the demand that third list should be prepared and
implemented for DNTs and Nomads, DNTs and Nomads be given
status of Scheduled Tribes. Haribhau went on following up this
matter with Central Government in respect of these demands.
Time went on. Haribhau was eagerly waiting for
recommendations of Renke commission. At the same time DNT and
Nomad Community numbering in crores was worried about their daily
meals. Their situation was so pitiable that even getting one time food
was very difficult for them. Then how they can think about matters
like Renke commission? Earlier, there life was made miserable by
British Rulers and then by the established class. The life of this
58
community had because a graveyard. Then what this community can
do?
Renke commission made a survey of such poor, DNT and
Nomads and submitted and their report on 02.07.2008 to the Central
Government. This report contained many important recommendations
for progress and development of DNTs and Nomads. The
commission urged the Government to accept and implement these
recommendations within six months and grant true life and liberty to
DNTs and Nomads.
Renke commission discharged the responsibility entrusted to it
by the Central Government, but everybody was worried whether the
Central Government accepts and implements its recommendations
us or it meets the same fate as Mandal commission.
Immediately after the Renke commission submitted its interim
report, Haribhau stood firmly in support of the commission.
He met the then President of India Hon’ble Mrs. Pratibha Patil-
Shekhawat on 10.08.2008 along with Saint Ramraoji Maharaj,
religious leader of Banjaras (Shrikshetra Poharadevi), discussed the
issues and problems of Banjaras and submitted detailed
Memorandum to her.
Photo
The then President of India Hon’ble Smt. Pratibha Patil-
Shekhawat and religious Saint Ramraoji Maharaj and Haribhau
Rathod.
59
Haribhau humbly requested the then President that the
Government should accept and implement the recommendations of
Renke commission at the earliest. The president promised the
delegation that immediate steps shall be taken to accept the
recommendations of Renke commission. The delegation included
Haribhau Rathod, J.P. Pawar (Delhi), Bheemrao Nayak (Karnataka),
Dayal Singh (Madhya Pradesh) and other leaders.
The population of a community may be very large but if there is
no proper organization, awareness and self respect, the large
population is of no use. Mere large population is of no use. The real
need is that self respecting motivated people should unite for
achieving Social Justice.
It is a fact that when such group of people goes on following up,
pressurizing the Government for its demands, then the administration
becomes aware of their needs.
Haribhaus’s crusade for social justice of the community did not
stop. It became his second nature to fight for community. The DNTs
and Nomads have long back stopped fearing dangers or to back track
or to run away from fighting. The community still protects this virtue.
Haribhau is no exception to this.
With the objective of bringing the DNT and Nomad community
in the main stream, Haribhau arranged a mega convention of DNTs
and Nomads at Azad Maidan, Mumbai on 20.08.2008. He urged
DNTs and Nomads all over India to unite and attend the convention
for pressurizing Government for following just and equitable
demands.
1. The third list should be made applicable to DNTs and Nomads.
60
2. There should be separate 10% reservation for DNTs and
Nomads.
3. 25% houses in Indira Awas Schemes should be reserved for
DNTs and Nomads.
4. “Ashram Shalas” (Residential schools) should be opened all
over India for DNTs and Nomads.
5. Colonies should be created in urban areas for DNTs and
Nomads.
6. Poor landless should be given land by government.
7. Separate census of DNTs and Nomads should be done.
Haribhau’s nature is like lotus which stays in mud but still
maintains its clean identity. The nature of a person is valuable. If a
person can win other’s hearts, he can achieve difficult things in life.
Haribhau speaks less but speaks sweet. He is a light house for
DNTs and Nomads.
Since he had lived the life of DNTs and Nomad, he always used
to think about their issues. He started working for implementation of
Renke commission.
He took representatives from DNTs and Nomads from all over
India and staged demonstrations at Jantar Mantar, Delhi on
15.10.2008, for the purpose of supporting Renke commission.
Photo
61
Senior Congress leader Ajit Jogi, Shri J.P. Agrawal (Delhi State
President of Congress Party) participated in these demonstrations.
Both leaders supported the agitation of DNTs and Nomads. Hon’ble
Balkrishna Renke, Chairman of the and Laxmanbharn Patani,
member of the commission, also visited the place of staging the
demonstrations. For the first time, thousands of representatives of
various classes of DNTs and Nomads had gathered together for
supporting recommendations of Renke commission. Presence of
community members from Maharashtra, Rajashthan, Madhya
Pradesh, Karnataka, Chhatisgarh, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Hariyana,
Panjab and Himachal Pradesh proved organization and self-respect
of the community.
“The great noise of Denotified Tribes, NomadicTribes and semi Nomadic Tribes, staying in Valleys, deep woods, living desperately and verypoor life was thundering loudlyin national capital demanding justice.”
The fact is that only those having strong political will can
survive with self respect. The community needs a leader fighting
legally. Haribhau created necessary political and social atmosphere
for supporting Renke commission. He befriended all MPs from other
communities as well and planned to strengthen the fight. Leaders
from all parties began to feel that the situation of DNTs and Nomads
is really serious. Haribhau convinced many MPs for supporting Renke
commission. All party MPs staged Dharna-demonstration near statue
of Mahatma Gandhi in the premises of Parliament with a demand that
62
the recommendations of Renke commission be implemented
immediately.
Photo
Shri Haribhau Rathod, Central Minister of State Shri. Manikrao
Hdlya Gabit, MP Vijay Darda (Congress), MP Trilochan Singh (BJP),
MP Devidas Pingle (NCP), MP Eknath Gaikwad, MP Bapu Hari
Chaure, MP Damu Shingada participated in the demonstration.
People started discussing that Haribhau is working hard for welfare of
DNTs and Nomads. The echo of this huge demonstation of Delhi
was heard in Sahyadri. These demonstrations were creating
awareness among DNTs and Nomads and also within the
Government. Haribhau had lion’s share in these developments.
Haribhau presented the case of DNTs and Nomads in
parliament very strongly and emphatically. For the first time, MPs
were coming to know the horrible position of, and torture, insults
faced by the DNTs and Nomads. Haribhau’s speeches in Parliament
used to be sensitive.
While tabling a thoughtful resolution, he said “there are lists for
Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes in constitution. Similarly
there should be list for DNTs and Nomads. This can be done even
by executive order. When Mandal commission was made applicable,
no approval of the Parliament was taken. It was made applicable by
executive order. In the same way Renke commission should be
made applicable by executive order. Let the government make any
63
schemes it wants to. I think, this decision should be taken before the
general elections.
Haribhau was very serious while expressing his opinion,
because the parliamentary elections were very close. The plight of
DNTs and Nomads was being discussed in Parliament for the first
time. Renke commission had made 76 recommendations. These
were categorized in 13 different classes. The supporters of Renke
commission expressed opinion that provisions should be made about
identity card, housing, ration card, land, education and safety for
DNTs and Nomads.
Haribhau says “The DNTs and Nomads are the propagandists
of original culture of India. This community has enriched the Indian
culture, but now the community is thrown out of town. It is living life
of neglected and deprived community. We have to take steps to
enrich their life and develop them”.
A question arose “The DNTs and Nomads are constantly on the
move. They stay out of village/town. Then how we can make
arrangements for them?” In this respect, the then Minister for Social
Justice said, “We have to bring all people in mainstream. We will not
make anybody reside out of town/village, we will give them
employment, vocational training. We will make arrangements for
their assets generation, their security. These arrangements shall be
done for all DNTs and Nomadic and semi-nomadic Tribes. We may
call them illiterate or uneducated but they are learned from generation
to generation. They have earned great knowledge of agriculture,
music, dance and many other aspects of life. We do not want to lose 64
all. We cannot dismiss that it is nothing. If we do this, we will be
doing same thing what britishers have done. This is a bring treasure.
We must conduct research over this and protect their culture”.
The enthusiasm and energy with which Haribhau was urging
the people to support Renke commission, he presented the issues of
DNTs and Nomads to the people with the same energy and
enthusiasm. He did not withdraw his resolution about Renke
commission until he got concrete promise, because he felt that it is
not possible to predict whether he will win next election. Hence it was
his keen internal desire that Renke commission is implemented
during his tenure as M.P. He has said so in Parliament.
Renke commission is issue of life and death of 14-15 Crore
DNTs and Nomads, and then it will be discussed all the way. There
is no doubt about that.
Many leaders and workers were united on giving a fight under
the leadership of Haribhau for supporting Renke commission.
65
Some workers, thinkers, leaders, organization, institution, were
creating public awareness on their level in their field. During this
period I (Eknath Pawar) published many articles about Renke
commission. All these people were working hard for Renke
commission. However, it was a sad fact that authors and writers like
Laxman Mane opposed implementation of the recommendations of
Renke commission. This simply cannot be justified. Haribhau
launched a scathing attack on the opposition made by Laxman Mane,
author of the book “Upra”. Many workers from DNTs and Nomads
like Ramji Ade, Amar Rathod also protested this opposition to Renke
commission. Protests were also lodged in Yawatmal, Akola, Washim,
Nagpur districts with request that action should be taken against
Laxman Mane. Memoranda were given to Tahsildars and District
Collectors.
Opposition to Renke commission means opposition to crores
of DNTs and Nomads. Haribhau was trying his level best to ensure
that people even at the lower most strata of the society should learn
about Renke commission. Days were passing. Every day was
bringing up new awareness, new challenges. Haribhau always gave
preference to community than to himself. He was ready to come to
any level for implementation of Renke commission.
During this period, the country went through political upheaval.
During this, Manamohan Singh government was in troubles.
Opposition parties tabled “No confidence” motion against the
Manmohan Singh Government. Every party was trying hard to prove
its strength.
66
During this period, Haribhau was extremely confused. What
decision he should take? How he should take the decision? So
many, questions and issues were bothering his mind. The day of
tabling no confidence motion against Manamohan Singh Government
arrived. The ruling party and opposition parties were ready for the
issue. Haribhau was facing dilemma. In whose favor should he
vote? He wanted to take advice of his political guru. He had troubles
at both ends.
Ultimately he clarified his position “I hope that ruling party
Congress Government shall implement Renke commission and
hence I am voting for them”. He was criticized for voting against BJP.
The BJP workers, especially in Yawatmal district strongly protested
against his decision. Various types of arguments were being put up.
Haribhau faced this storm bravely. He defeated the opposition,
swallowed insults, and sorrow and again came forward.
After this political upheaval, once Shri Lalu Prasad Yadav had
come to Yawatmal for some function. He said “Now look, Haribhau
has become martyr to save Manamohan Singh Government. During
that time, it was being discussed that he has taken this decision very
bravely with the hope that Congress shall implement Renke
commission.
The political climate was warming up. The people felt that
Haribhau did not want that his community suffers due to non-
implementation of Renke commission report, hence he took this
decision.
67
Haribhau started an agitation from 05.12.2008 in support of
Renke commission with the purpose that the demands of his
community should not be neglected. 5th December is a very
important and respectful day in the history of the DNT and Nomadic
Community because; this was the day when Vasantrao Naik, the
leader of development of modern Maharashtra, leader of green
revolution became Chief Minister of Mharashtra.
This day is also observed as “Sankalp Din” (day of decision) by
DNTs and Nomads. Haribhau started his agitation for Renke
commission from this date. He did not have objective of showing his
political power behind this agitation. The only object was that people
should come to know the importance of Renke commission.
The program was arranged in Ansuya Hall (on Amravati Road).
I went to the hall along with my friend. Haribhau was speaking. After
the program was over, I went to meet him at Ravi Bhavan in the
night. After some discussion, I met Laxman Gaikwad, author of
“Uchlya” and Hon’ble Balkrishna Renke (Chief, Renke commission).
Photo
My book “Vedana” (collection of poems) was to be published on
25th December. I took remark of Shri Laxman Gaikwad on the book.
It was about 12.00 in night.
68
Many readers read my articles supporting Renke commission
published in various newspapers. I got very good response from
them.
Renke sir was listening to my discussions with Laxman
Gaikwad, author of “Uchlya”. I felt he must be thinking about future of
the DNT and Nomad class. I expressed my respect for Renke sir and
Haribhau. I was impressed and motivated by their work.
The agitation was to continue till 5th January 2009. Haribhau
had lot of responsibility. He concentrated only on the agitation. He
staged the agitation throughout Maharashtra and it concluded it on
Shivaji Park, Mumbai. Thousands of members of DNTs and Nomads
had gathered in Mumbai in support of Renke commission.
Haribhau stood there like a light house.
Photo
The then Maharashtra Chief Minister Ashokrao Chavan,
Congress President Manekrao Thkerey MP, Ramdas Athavale, and
other dignitaries were present at the conclusion ceremony and grand
rally of DNTs and Nomads.
Haribhau’s struggle and work for Renke commission is really
great and laudable.
69
The DNTs and Nomads somehow stay in hilly areas and are
spread all over thick forest. They are worried as to how to make two
ends meet. This is their complication. How can they be concerned
about Renke commission, third list, and why? How they will
understand? Reply to all these questions is Haribhau Rathod.
Haribhau slogged day and night to inform people about Renke
commission and convinced them about its importance. All DNT and
Nomads supported him for implementation of Renke commission.
This shows Haribhau’s popularity and his empathy towards the
community.
Photo
Haribhau created world out of nothing. He had a fixed aim and
he has been struggling, slogging, working hard. He is committed to
social cause. He is born in Banjara Community but he never thought
that this fellow is Shepherd, this is Dombari, this is Patharwat (stone
crusher) etc.
Haribhau takes all people along with himself. He has never
thought in terms of castes and castism. In this new era of Information
Technology and Modern Technology, everybody is focusing on
himself and is selfish. Nobody is bothered about the society.
However there are very few exceptions to this.
70
Banjara is a typical and traditional, characteristic community.
However, today the situation is against the community. One cannot
see proper progress up to expectation in caravan, pada, pal, tola
(colony). The children of the DNTs and Nomads are far away from
education. They are forced to become child labor. They do not like
education. They always face problems of feeding themselves and of
social security. Haribhau studied the community standing in such
poor state and tried hard to bring improvement in their plight. He tried
to install self esteem in their minds by bringing in changes.
His shrewd nature in politics along with his social work is as
unique as
glow-worm blinking in dark and as unique as phynix bird which rises
from ashes. He began from a small caravan and reached Parliament,
because of his hard work in social field. He has tolerant nature and
unique ability to focus on his goal.
His behaviour as an ordinary person and an MP is same. He
does not have iota of ego, but he faces odds and dangers of life very
bravely and tactfully. This is a result of his upbringing in neglected
basti of DNTs and Nomads. He got this training right from childhood.
People sent him to the Parliament as their trusted
representative. He never betrayed them. There are some MPs,
MLAs etc who always disrupt the proceedings in the house, there are
others who never open their mouth, but there are some who fight
hard for issues of the people. If we have to strengthen democracy,
the people’s representatives must observe code of conduct in the
Parliament/Assemblies/Councils. The people’s representative must 71
be a person working hard for people. He must work for progress of
the weaker sectors so as to bring them along with the developed
segment of the society. This is the need of the hour.
The peoples’ representative must be of sensitive mind,
ambitious, having multiple skills. They must reach to the bottom most
strata of the society. Such representatives become very dear to the
public. There are many such representatives e.g. Rajiv Gandhi, Jyoti
Basu, N.T. Ramarao, Promod Mahajan, Yashawantrao Chavan etc.
The void caused by their death is still felt. Their work continuously
gives new energy to us to live.
Haribhau never created any chaos in Parliament, but he always
presented his say firmly and properly, may be about Renke
commission or his constituency. His work in Parliament as per P.R.
Legislative research is as under.
Haribhau Rathod
Resigned on 05.01.2009
Constituency : Yawatmal
Party : Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP)Participation in discussion : 90
Legislative discussions : 24Non legislative discussions : 66Local matters : 17
72
Private bills tabled : 2Question asked : 353Presence : 217 (out of 322) i.e. 67%
His work is praise worthy, especially his contribution to
discussions in legislative and non legislative matters. Right from his
youth, he is obessed by aim of developing his community. He had
worked hard to get a job, but he quit that job. Same thing was
repeated when he took the decision to join Congress party. He firmly
believed that Congress will implement Renke commission. Then he
took all concerned people in confidence and joined Congress Party
officially.
Photo
On Dias: – Hon’ble Shri. Janardan Dwivedi, Hon’ble Jayanti
Natarajan,
Hon’ble Oscar Fernandes and Haribhau Rathod.
Haribhau faced a big challenge of adjusting with new workers of
Congress Party after he quit BJP and joined Congress, but he
effectively managed this task with the help of his “Unit Plan Factor”
and made his life easy in congress Party.
15th Parliamentary Elections were announced. Everybody
started working. The Parliamentary constituencies were reconstituted
73
as per recommendations of Parisiman commission. Many people got
worried because of the reconstitution. Haribhau’s Yawatmal
constituency was reconstituted as Yawatmal-Washim constituency.
Majority of the voters in this constituency belong to Banjara
Community. Similarly there is large population of Kunbi, Adivasi
(Tribal) and Muslims in this constituency.
There was competition between Haribhau and Uttamrao Patil
for candidature of Congress Party. However, based on the mind set
of Community and help rendered by Haribhau in saving the Congress
Government at the time of No-confidence motion, Haribhau got the
candidature of Congress Party for 15th Parliamentary Elections.
Vilasrao Deshmukh, Ahmed Patel and Manekrao Thakrey helped him
in this task.
Haribhau’s opponents in the Congress party became very
active. Haribhau approached the voters on the point of his social
work and development. He utilized his full strength.
Hon’ble Sonia Gandhi, Shivaraj Patil, Ashokrao Chavan come
to Yawatmal for Haribhau’s election rally’s. Haribhau worked day and
night. He fell sick but his workers were slogging.
It is extremely difficult to say how and why the times will
change. Similarly, it is very difficult to predict the changes in politics.
The changes do not need any reason and hence it is called as
politics. Haribhau was leading in the beginning, but subsequently
trailed back and ultimately Shivsena Candidate Bhavan Gawali-Surve
won the election.
74
Once this news reached the caravan, there was sadness
everywhere. He was the only leader at national level struggling for
the community. The community lost its hopes. However, Congress
won the elections and formed Government. When Haribhau was BJP
MP, BJP was not in power. When he lost the election, Congress
came in power.
One has to accept loss, failure and unhappiness in war, politics
and love. Even though Haribhau had vote bank of his community and
concept of “Aam Admi” of Congress, Haribhau lost the election
because of his opponents within Congress party.
Haribhau swalloed the defeat, he forgot the wounds and again
became active in social work. Basically he is social worker so it is not
possible that he will be fed up of social work. Along with social work,
he joined the organizational work of Congress Party. He did his
politics as a disciplined soldier of the party. He did have the pitiable
situation of DNTs and Nomads at his heart. He did not lose that fire.
He continued his discussions with senior leaders for
implementing the recommendations of Renke commission. He
started getting settled in Congress party as a party worker. At that
time, Rahul brigade was putting emphasis on youth leadership.
Congress organized many functions for involving Youth. A program
for guiding the youth was organized at Nagpur. Haribhau participated
in that program.
Congress party Secretary General and Ex Minister Mr. Oscar
Fernandez was present at the function. He said “youth are future of
75
India and in future, they will lead India”. This program was organized
at Hotel Airport Center Point. It was attended by Mr. Oscar
Fernandez, Haribhau Rathod, Jay Prakash Gupta and MLA Nilesh
Parvekar.
The work load of party work and social work of community was
increasing and it started affecting Haribhau’s health, but he
considered all these matters as trivial and gave importance to the
work and his aim. He also had responsibility of organizing and
expanding Kranti Dal beyond Maharashtra. He went on working hard
to expand this national level organization more and more. Haribhau
began to be known for fighting for demands of DNTs and Nomads
along with demand of Banjaras. He felt that let it be any state, the
community is same, and so he fought for DNT and Nomad brothers.
However, he never ignored his caravan.
He used to urge them through his speech “My brothers and
sisters who are staying in caravan, pal, tola, live with self respect.
Give proper education to your children. Make them self sufficient.
Unite and fight for your rights. Do not waste your power by internal
fighting.”
He used to try hard for pulling crowds. He treats the party
workers with due respect because he thinks that it is his duty to do
so. He is well known in the society. As he does social work along
with Politics, he has contacts with important leaders.
76
In one program, he was speaking with Y.S.R. Reddi, but
Haribhau did not forget to discuss issues of DNTs and Nomads in
Andhra Pradesh.
Photo
The Banjaras in Andhra Pradesh come to Poharadevi with
great faith. Andhra Pradesh is birth place of Jagatguru Saint Sevalal
Maharaj, a great religious leader of Banjaras. Haribhau feels that
Banjaras in other states should have love, affection and respect for
Banjaras in Andhra.
Time is ruthless. It does not spare anybody. Andhra’s popular
Chief Minister Shri Y.S.R. Reddi expired in a plane crash. Haribhau’s
meeting with him was the last meeting. A great void was caused due
to death of Y.S.R Reddi. Haribhau felt very sad.
15th Parliamentary Elections were over. Government started its
work. New issues and problems started to crop up. Old questions
and issues remained pending. A question arose, that in absence of
Haribhau, who will raise the issue of DNTs and Nomads in
Parliament. There is nobody in Parliament to support Renke
commission.
At the time of preparing the constitution, there was not a single
representative of DNTs and Nomads, and hence they remained
deprived of justice. They had to live as a criminal tribe. Many 77
decades have lapsed, but the caravan, vada, tol, pal of DNTs and
Nomads have not reaped any benefit of freedom. One of the reasons
for this is that there is no representative of this community. If the
community wants to get its due benefits, it must send its
representatives to Legislative Assembly – Parliament, Zilla Parishad
in as many numbers as possible, because the wearer of the shoe
feels the pinch. Today every caravan, pal, tola, pada should unite
and start all pervasive agitation, but should not pull each other’s legs.
Whosoever is progressing, let him progress. The well being of the
society lies there.
If everybody pays attention to this, our society will certainly
come up as a powerful community. I (Haribhau) am trying my level
best to unite the community, but unfortunately efforts are being done
to split the community. However, considering the need of existence
of the community in future, the community should be united. Till
recent times, the community was united as a gang. The caravan did
not take any step without the order of the leader. Even today, Gor
Panchyat should be respected; advice of Nayak Secretary should be
taken. We have to save community from future danger and hence
everybody should participate in building up the society. Today we are
see are different picture. Even though the community is big, the
elected representatives are only one or two.
Everybody is pulling leg of each other. A gormati person is enemy of other gormati
Haribhau was expressing his thoughts in this manner. He was
upset. He was speaking about society with great sympathy. He 78
expressed his frustration about what will happen with our community.
He wiped his sweat and kept quite for some time.
Haribhau’s social contribution and hard work for the cause of
community are certainly praise worthy.
Some people think “Now I am elected, all questions are over”,
but Haribhau was not one of such people. The Renke commission
issue was still making him uneasy. He had firmly decided to continue
his fight till the Government accepts his demands.
There are 313 DNTs in 15 states and many small sub-castes,
sub-communities are disbursed throughout various states, Banjaras,
Aheria, Bhil, Bavariya, Mallah, Dhangar (Shephard), Paradhi (people
killing birds), Gosavi, Kaikadi, Chhara, Bajania, Turi, Gadalia,
Charan, Barar, Bauria, Baldia, Kanjar, Pasia, Kahar, Jogi, Sapera,
Madari, Brijawasi, Bedar, Gadilohar, Kapadia, Ottari, Ramoshi,
Tirmal, Bijoria, Kathodi, Vaghori, Gangaputra, Nath, Garo, Sansi,
Lodh, Kanmailiya, Patharvat (people breaking stones), Kollwati,
Bhairadi etc. are some of the 400 sub-castes, communities coming
under DNTs and Nomads.
Haribhau continued his fight for ensuring that recommendation
of Renke commission are made applicable to these communities
numbering about 10-15 Crores. He took out a procession on
05.01.2010 at Jantar Mantar, Delhi.
79
Photo
During the press conference held on 04.01.2010, Haribhau
informed that Hon’ble Digvijay Singh, Hon’ble Oscar Fernandez,
Hon’ble Dr. Bhalchandra Mungekar, Hon’ble Balkrishna Renke and
other dignitaries shall guide the attendees in the procession
scheduled on 05.01.2010. The general feeling in the processions
was that there should be improvement in social condition of the DNTs
and Nomads, and reservation is necessary for that purpose, and to
active this community must be united. The attendees comprised of
community members in large numbers coming from Hariyana, Delhi,
Karnataka, Punjab, Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh, Shri Jagir Singh
Baratia (all India Gor rajput Sabha), Shri. Indrajit Baljyot (A.I.G.R.
Sabha), Krishnadeep Singh, Dr. Darshansingh Baljyot, Harprit Singh
and other office bearer had joined Haribhau in the rally to support the
cause of Renke Commssion. These were examples of unity of
community and its commitments.
Times have changed, new technology has arrived. Developed
communities are turning global. The religions institutions are getting
donations in Crores. The people who earlier had only two-wheelers
are now moving in four wheelers like Scorpio, Vaganor etc. Numbers
of towers are being constructed.
However the plight of DNTs and Nomads is still horrible. Even
then nobody feels pity for them. The industrialist, rich people donate
crores of rupees gold to temples at Shegav, Shirdi but these
communities are deprived of food, clothes, shelter and other needs of
life. Even though they are alive, their living is as good as dead. 80
Nobody feels it. Only thing people feel is the art, skill and culture of
community and that too only as “Fashion Show”! That is all.
The position of DNTs and Nomads is slightly better in
progressive state of Maharashtra. However, compared to the needs
of time the political, economic, educational and cultural
representation of the community is negligible.
Haribhau feels this constantly. The pains and sufferings of this
community do not let him keep quite. His only wish is to fight for the
community till death.
Haribhau says “our community should be motivated by unity.
The educated class, those in employment should pay attention to the
community and should try to make positive changes in the
community. Everybody owes something to the community. This
debt can be repaid by doing something for the community.”
Haribhau decided that instead of finding time for family from
social work, he should treat society as his family and work for it. He
went on meeting workers, work as per policy and objective of the
party and then finding time for his hobbies depending on availability
of time, however his struggle for Renke commission did not stop.
Renke commission had made very important suggestions for
DNTs and Nomads. Haribhau realized that time is passing, Renke
commission is being ignored and hence he met Sonia Gandhi on
15.05.2010 at Delhi. He urged her to take some steps for
implementation of Renke commission and also for welfare of DNTs
and Nomads.
81
Photo
He was accompanied by Shivajirao Moghe, Minister of Social
Justice of Maharashtra and Ram Ade. “Eknath, I met Sonia Gandhi
in Delhi and spoke to her”. Haribhau gave this good news to me on
phone. It was obvious that he was very happy. It is necessary that
Sonia Gandhi also should take the matter as seriously as Haribhau
takes it.
Haribhau was firm on the hope that one day or the other
Government will accept their demands. Now many organizations and
workers also joined Haribhu in the crusade for Renke commission.
Shri Balkrishna Renke started to organize programs for creating
awareness in the society through his organization “Lokdhara”. Many
small-big organizations also joined this crusade. They were
concentrating on unity of community, once we were talking at his
residence he said, “DNTs and Nomads Community is large in
numbers, but is miniscule in organization and self sufficiency. Many
castes and communities do not have shelter, voting cards, resources
of living that’s why I (Haribhau) am demanding caste wise census.
There are many who take undue benefit of problems and issues of
poor people, but there are very few who give them their proper dues.
Some people in the community are educated, but they have forgotten
the community in the glamour of their wealth. Nobody is bothered
about the community. Everybody has become selfish, but nobody is
82
bothered about the signals indicating that the future generation is
going to dogs. This is the tragedy of the community”.
Haribhua is expressing all these feelings. He became sad. I
felt very bad.
Haribhau is more of a social worker than a politician. He joined
politics only for society. Though social work and polices are two
sides of same coin, Haribhau was more of a social worker. He had
seen pains and sufferings very closely, then how could be forgetting
them?
There are various types of people in society; they are different
from each other. So we cannot favor a particular person totally.
Many factors are responsible for this. It is true that Haribhau is
working hard for society. He is a leader committed to community on
national level. Even then criticism is levied on his work or personality.
This is typical of Indian Culture. There are some people who always
pull legs of those who are progressing, this is crab mentality.
Haribhau never bothered about such minor matters. Opposition
and criticism is acknowledgement of a hardworking and capable man
and are more important than awards or rewards.
Haribhau was of the opinion that the community should
progress and nobody should be deprived of his dues. He started
constructive struggle for community. He said that “I think that the
DNTs and Nomads shall get liberty in true sense, only if Renke
commission’s recommendations are implemented. Haribhau’s words
are motivating factors for youth. He says that we should concentrate
83
on social work than politics. Social work enables us to repay our
social debt. A social worker can, one day be successful in politics. A
person, who does not have tradition of politics in his family, cannot
become successful in today’s politics. One can get lot of happiness
and respect of special type through social work. Today’s Youth
should not ignore social work. We can strengthen our position
through social work and at the same time development of community
goes on. These matters are significant in politics. Hence the Youth
should come forwards for social work. This way Haribhau guides the
Youth. It is a pleasant surprise that in the period of breaking news,
we can hear the news of Haribhau’s efforts for implementation of
recommendation of Renke commission. So many scams came to
light; people began to see that the ruling party and the opposition
have begun to fight with each other.
As a result, important issues, pending issues did not come to
attention of the people. Many years have lapsed after the submission
of Renke commission report, but nobody has time to pay attention to
the same.
When the Government is facing new problems before the
pending issues are sorted out, what can be done? This is a matter of
grave concern. The position of Renke commission which is hope of
15 Crores DNTs and Nomad people is worse than Mandal
commission. The government is not taking any action. Haribhau
used to be upset because of this. Haribhau once again staged
demonstrations at Delhi on 09.11.2010 for reminding the Government
about these issues.
84
Photo
During this agitation, Haribhau told Shri Mukul Vasnik, Union
Minister of Social Justice that ignoring Renke commission any more
shall be death-nail for DNTs and Nomads.
Shri Vasanik promised Haribhau, “DNTs and Nomads shall get
concessions and facilities in Center also. The Central Government
shall consider the recommendations of Renke commission seriously”.
Baldeo Raj from Punjab, Mansing Banjara from Rajasthan and other
leaders from Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra
were present in November agitation.
The agitation for implementation of Renke commission is still
not over. It shall still go on, because it is a real manifesto for freedom
of DNTs and Nomads. Many decades have passed after our country
has got independence. Many concepts like India Shining, India
Vision, India 20-20, Global India etc came and gone but the liberty is
far away from DNTs and Nomads. They were branded Criminal
castes because they opposed the British rulers. They sacrificed for
India, but it is ignored. DNTs and Nomads feel that at least they
should be give opportunity to live in this democracy.
Only Renke commission can take DNTs and Nomads out of the
educational, economic, cultural and political backwardness. Renke
commission report has been prepared after very careful study and
85
analysis. However, the recommendations are being ignored.
Ignoring this report shall push the future generation of DNTs and
Nomads in Dark. Leaders from every party should take Renke
commission seriously. For how many more days the DNTs and
Nomads shall be kept in this situation? It is need of the time that
everybody comes forward for implementation of the
recommendations of Renke commission.
Haribhau tops the list of those who are working hard for DNTs
and Nomads. Haribhau is real diamond who argued in Parliament for
Renke commission, took morchas to Delhi and staged demonstration
in Delhi and is trying to organize the community in India.
Haribhau’s courage went on increasing. Normally when
elections are over, all these things are forgotten, but how Haribhau
can forget the community? He is more interested in social work than
politics. Basically he is a true worker. This is a character of true
leader. If one ceases to be a worker, he becomes living dead.
Hence for the benefit of the society the worker in the person must
remain alive.
Haribhau was a national leader fighting not only for DNTs and
Nomads in Maharashtra, but for all over India. Hence he was
unanimously elected as president of DNTs and Nomads
Mahasangha. Haribhau always meets senior leaders and important
Government departmental officers for any matter including Renke
commission. He always used to speak to me about the event
whether he is in Delhi or anywhere else. I saw him as a true human
being rather than a social worker or a politician. The true human 86
being in his life was aware, active and kicking in this selfish world.
He never had ego.
Today the situation is very bad. An ordinary “Ward Member”
ignores others when he wins election. He ignores our greetings. He
does not reply phone calls. Now a days an office bearer pretends as
if he is going to Mantralaya even if he is going to Taluka place. The
additction of power is worse than the addiction of whiskey. It can be
useful and harmful. It depends on moral values and commitment of
the person concerned.
Haribhau’s phone is active 24x7. I have experienced that
whenever you phone him, he replies the phone call. Once he phoned
me at 11.30 in night. Couple of times, I received his phone at 4-4.30
in night. Normally at this time a person is in deep sleep, but some
people are awake even at this time. One is book lovers, who keep on
reading good books or a writer or a thinker. The people of this type
remain awake so that they can guide others to go to light from
darkness. Haribhau was the first person I saw who is available for
fellow community brothers, for workers on telephone and would be in
touch with then whenever possible.
In this modern age, people are changing in a faster manner.
New events take place every day. New problems, solutions, new
issues, new concepts are ruling the society. Since 2010, the issue of
black money is getting move importance. Hon’ble Chief Minister
Sudhakar Naik had taken strong steps to eradicate corruption in
Maharashtra. He was knows as a strict discipliner, having firm grip
on administration. 87
He was the first Chief Minister to take steps to eradicate
corruption. However, he had to step down because of this good
deed. One could not image that such dirty politics shall be played in
Maharashtra. Sudhakar Naik’s quilting the position of Chief Minister
is very unfortunate. There was a news item stating that Sr. Social
Worker and crusader for action against corruption Shri. Anna Hazare
had once praised Sudhakarrao Naik for his crusade against
corruption.
Today not only Maharashtra, but entire India is gripped by
corruption. The morality is going down and down day by day. Unless
the morality is clear and clean, eradication of corruption is impossible.
Anna Hazare had started agitation for Janlokpal Bill. Entire nation
was shouting “Anna, Anna”. Every channel was showing Anna.
The public was viewing the discussion, “whether Janalokpal bill
is beyond the Parliamentary system? Who is superior, Parliament or
Anna’s core team? Even then those who could take undue benefit of
there were taking, sufferers were suffering. Nobody was bothered
that there are Crores of people in India who are deprived of food,
water, shelter, health, education etc. 15 Crores of DNTs and
Nomads in India were not bothered “India’s Lokpal or Anna’s Lokpal”
because despite the lapse of 64 years after independence, many
groups are out of social flow. Their life is still in dark. The media
world and leaders were working on the issue of corruption, but these
people did not know the object poverty, horrible living, open
exploitation of DNTs and Nomads. Whether they were turning
Nelson’s eye to these things? So many questions are bothering.
88
This community is deprived of justice since thousands of years, but
nobody bothers about it. It is a special thing that majority of people
stood against corruption for the first time.
During this period, a big program of death anniversary of Shri
Vasantrao Naik, a great leader of Maharashtra was organized at Smt.
Poornachandra Booty Hall of R.T.M. Nagpur University, Nagpur. At
that time Dr. Pravin Pawar had put up large hoardings of Shri Naik at
prominent places in Nagpur. Shri Haribhau Rathod was Chairman of
the function, and Shri. Balkrishna Renke and Archana Dehankar
(Mayor, Nagpur Metro Politian Council) were Chief Guests. Haribhau
told me on the previous night of the function to attend the function.
The hall was packed to the capacity. Haribhau was speaking with
Archana. He was enquiring with her whether some premises or land
in Nagpur can be made available for the community or whether any
benefit can be given to the community by Nagpur M.C. During his
speech, Shri Renke told some memories about Vasantrao Naik and
was imparting energy among the attendees.
He said “Vasantrao Naik proved that even though we are DNTs
and Nomads, we have the capacity to give stable Government. We
have to bring another Vasantrao Naik”. There was thunder of
clapping. At that time Haribhau was sitting on Dias and he looked
serious. He might be thinking about internal and external conspiracy
against the community, irresponsible people splitting the community
drifting new generations and depressing situation of the society. He
did not see any hope of another Vasantrao Naik emerging out of the
situation. Here he was sad.
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Balkrishna Renke was expressing his views on various social
issues. He spoke about ancient prosperity and bravery of DNTs and
nomads. He said that now the DNTs and Nomads should take lead
for grabbing power. This Banjara Community has ability to grab the
power.
Renke did not forget to mention the untiring efforts being made
by Haribhau for uniting the community at national level. He stated
that 666 sub-castes of DNTs and Nomads should take a cue from the
work and thoughts of Vasantrao Naik, keep the community united and
try hard for increasing political representation.
Haribhau’s speech started. I saw for the first time that he was
connecting with the attendees through his speech. He was
conclusively answering the question put up by the attendees.
Compared to his increasing age, his enthusiasm of a worker was
remarkable, but he was not forgetting the pains of caravan, pal even
thought he was expressing his concern for future of community at
national level. His expectation that the caravan should become global
was evident from his speech. Majority of the attendees were young.
So Haribhau explained him the basics of social movements. He told
an important but funny incidence in his life. He said:-
“Bahujan Kesari Makharamji Pawar had started an agitation for
supporting Mandal commission recommendation. A morcha was
taken out at Akola for this purpose.
I went to a barber’s shop for a share before going to District
Collector along with the Morcha. The shop was adjacent to the road
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from which the morcha was going. The Barbar was shaving me and
at the same time he was looking at our Morcha. The people in the
Morcha were shouting slogans. The barbar said “Why these people are shouting? Useless people! They have so many concessions; still they are taking out morchas for silly reasons. Why these people have taken out morcha now”? I (Haribahu) felt like
laughing but at the same time I was feeling angry. The barbar did not
know that the morcha is taken for concession to OBC”. When
Haribhau narrated this incident, there was applause all over.
Everybody including Haribhau laughed.
Exactly this is happening with backward classes. They do not
know who they are, what their duties are. Haribhau said “Till we do
not come to know about our existence, the Renke commission is also
of no use”. While speaking on stand of community on third list he
said “Mother also does not give milk to the child until the child cries”.
The same principle is applicable to the movement of DNTs and
Nomads. Hence all castes, sub-castes in DNTs and Nomads must
unite and raise voice for their rights. Haribhau is ready to sacrifice for
this. “You also must be ready like me”. The attendees were quite.
At this time Haribhau urged them to attend the Morcha at Delhi
on 30.08.2011 for supporting Renke commission.
After the function was over, people were talking among
themselves. Couple of friends was talking “Can’t Anna Hajare see the plight of lacs of DNTs and Nomads”? Why these media people do not take up our issues? Haribhau is working very hard for us, but what he can do alone?” There was large crowd at
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the gate. Lot of people had gathered around Shri Renke and
Haribhau. Haribhau was responding everybody with love and
affection, but he was looking everywhere for somebody.
“Where is Eknath? Has he gone? Has anybody seen him?” He was searching me.
I wanted to see whether Haribhau has forgotten me in this
function. Hence I was standing behind him intentionally at the back
side. Ultimately he was successful in locating me. He put his hand
on my shoulder and said “Where were you”? He called Renke and
said “Anna, look, this is our Eknath”. I asked “Who is Anna”?
Haribhau answered “Anna is our Renke”. After Anna came, I bowed
to him. Haribhau introduced me to him. Anna put his hand on my
shoulder and spoke with love and affection to me. I was extremely
happy. My joy was more than I felt when I had won prizes.
We said bye to the people present and started for Ravibhavan.
Haribhau was telling me how his agitation is spreading more and
more in India. Nitin Sardar was talking in Gormati language about
some old matters. Press conference was to be held at 5.30 in the
evening. We discussed some matters in Ravibhavan. Haribhau was
suffering from blood pressure, so I gave him some tablets. After
sometime, Haribhau spoke with some leaders at Uttar Pradesh,
Delhi, and Gujarat on his mobile about organizing the Morcha. After
taking some rest, we went for press conference. It is very beneficial
to plan in advance before starting any activity. Hence it was decided
what will be spoken and who will speak it.
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During the press conference, Haribhau informed the attendees
about formation of action committee about issue of DNTs and
Nomads and supporting Renke commission. He said that
demonstrations shall be held at Jantar Mantar, Delhi on 30.08.2011 in
support of Renke commission. Renke Anna said “Countless people
belonging to DNTs and Nomads in India are not able to enjoy benefits
of liberty. If the recommendations of Renke commission are
implemented, the plight of DNTs and Nomads in India will certainly
improve, but the Government is just wasting time and following
delaying tactics by appointing Jadhav commission”.
The Journalists asked questions about Anna Hazares agitation.
Renke said “We respect Anna Hajare, but we cannot support his
stance that the Government must pass whatever law we tell”. (Anna
Hazare tells)
Haribhau said media is saying “Anna Hajare, Anna Hajare, why
media does not pay attention to Anna Renke? We are deprived of
justice since thousands of years.”
After the press conference, Haribhau went to Nagpur Airport for
onward Journey to Delhi.
Next day the newspapers published this news in headlines.
Sakal said “Renke Anna to reach Delhi” there was big news.
Haribhau had named him “Renke Anna” first time in the program of
death anniversary of Naiksaheb. The newspapers published same
name.
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Haribhau remained firm on his stand to work hard for getting
concessions to DNTs, implementation of Renke commission and
Jadhav Action Committee. During this time, strengthening his side in
Congress, he convinced Ramesh Gajable, Ex-Minister of state to join
Congress party. Gajabe is an important leader of Mana Community.
Haribhau also admitted Prakash Lonare in Congress party. Haribhau
is said to be close to State Congress Party President Manekrao
Thakerey.
Photo
Haribhau was appointed as General Secretary of congress
party in 2011. The list of General Secretaries included 25 names.
Haribhau is a born social worker and committed to social cause.
He was mainly inclined towards social work. The DNTs and Nomads
and Banjara Community could get many concessions due to hard
work done by Haribhau, but he was aware that these concessions
shall not be useful for permanent development. Similarly there are
very few facilities which will enable DNTs and Nomads to draw
attention of people at Central level towards the issues of DNTs and
Nomads. Hence Haribhau paid attention to Dr. Narendra Jadhav
Committee after third list and Renke commission.
Renke commission had submitted its report. It contained very
important 76 recommendations but UPA-I Government did not
94
implement these recommendations and kept them pending. UPA-II
Government assumed power in Center. The NAC (National Advisory
Committee) of this Government now appointed another committee for
DNTs and Nomads. This committee is called as Jadhav Action
Committee. First meeting of this action committee was held on
18.04.2011. Second meeting of action committee (group) was held
on 11.05.2011 and third on 13.07.2011. This action committee
(group) made new recommendations for DNTs and Nomads. These
contained very important provisions. These included applying
Atrocity Act to DNTs and Nomads, repealing Habitual Offenders Act
(1952), to grant concessions and facilities to DNTs and Nomads
under National Wildlife Act, to make self employment opportunities
available to them, provide them accommodation so that they can
settle at one place; provide legal and constitutional facilities, to
constitute separate Development Board for them. This action group
submitted its report on 18.10.2011. In the press conference held at
Maharashtra Sadan Delhi, Haribhau said that the Jadhav Action
Committee set up by NAC has made revolutionary and important
recommendations.
Haribhau submitted following demands to Jadhav Action
group:- The DNTs and Nomads should be given rights on
Government land. The DNTs and Nomads should be given 7%
reservation out of 27% reservation given to OBCs.
This NAC action group was presided over by Dr. Narendra
Jadhav. The representatives of Central Government in the group
were Sangeeta Gairala, Kumar Alok, P. P. Mitra Dr. Aamarjit Sing.
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Following were representatives in the group from states:- Mishrilal
Paswan (U.P.), B.B. Singh (U.P.), Vidya Sagar Rao (Andhra
Pradesh), Bijoy Debbaramma (Tripura), R.K. Viash (Delhi), Aditi
Mehta (Rajasthan). Technical Advisors were Prof. Ajay Dandekar,
Dr. Meena Radha Krishna, Balkrishna Renke (Chairman of Renke
commission), Laxmichand and Laxmibhai Patni. The Core
Committee members consisted of Haribhau Rathod, Krishan
Shrinivas, Indrajit Rajbhar (U.P.), C.K. Yogi, Moh. Yasin Poswal
(Jammu and Kashmir), Kaluram Chavan (Rajasthan), Paras Banjara
(Chitodgarh Rajasthan), Anurag Modi (Madhya Pradesh), Anil Pal
(Lucknow), Viranna Karnavat (Andhra Pradesh), Smt. Mital Patel,
Laxman Gaikwad, Machhindra Bhosale (Maharashtra), Fakira
Jadhav, Prof. Motiraj Rathod (Maharashtra), Jayantilal Chadavat
(Rajasthan), Shri. Tejpal (Lucknow), Nandlal Pal (Lucknow),
Ramavadh Rajbhar (Azamgarh).
All members of this action group studied the position of DNTs
and Nomads and submitted their report to NAC. However, it was
expected that this draft should not meet the fate of Renke
commission. Haribhau said “Even though the draft of action group is
revolutionary, it is the call of time that the implementation of the draft
should be revolutionary.
When he was telling me all these things, I said “The Central
Government should not keep DNTs and Nomads waiting for more
time. In case this matter is not sorted out properly immidiately, the
situation of DNTs and Nomads shall be more pitiable and horrible.
They will lose confidence on freedom of the nation. On one side
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developed society is conquering the world and on other side this
community of 13 Crores in India is still landless and shelterless.
Even though the population is huge, it is not represented adequately
in State Government or Central Government and hence they are not
representing in Central or State Ministries, so that their side can be
explained. It is really unfortunate for them. If this community having
population about 13 Crores jointly raises fight, the political equations
in this country shall certainly change. This DNTs and Nomads
certainly have power to change power equation and political
equations in this nation. They have to identify their power and utilize
it. All political parties are using DNTs and Nomads as well as
Banjara community. The Banjara Community is in majority in
Maharashtra, but their representatives are very few and hence the
population is of no use. The society is progressing day by day, but
this community is still backward. We must consider this seriously.
The community should understand the power of its population and
show its strength to the nation. Until this happens, let any party form
the government, let it be based on any ism or principle, the
community has to drift aimlessly. I presented my honest opinion to
Haribhau. Haribhau knew it properly, because he had slogged for
community throughout his life. He had faced many problems.
After my talk was over, Haribhau said “Eknath, I have not lost, nobody van take away my confidance” and said “until I am alive I
will keep on fighting for the rights of DNTs and Nomads and ensure
that they get justice”.
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In between somebody phoned him. Discussion stopped.
Haribhau’s internet in social work that in politics was evident. The
topic in our discussion and also telephonic discussions was
community only.
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Haribhau was unanimously elected as president at National
Level of DNT Mahasangh. He had huge public contacts in every
state. This “diamond” coming from a small caravan in Maharashtra
was active on national level to increase his public contact, but he
never ignored the caravan. An ordinary worker became national level
leader of DNTs and Nomads. Haribhau has created public
awareness about the issues and problems of DNTs and Nomads not
only in Maharashtra but also in Delhi, Uttar pradesh, Rajasthan,
Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Gujarat, Chhattisgarh, Andhra Pradesh,
Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Bihar, Zarkhand, Orissa,
Tripura and Uttaranchal. He has done a great deed of bringing
leaders of different states under one banner.
Noting this hard work of Haribhau, Congress entrusted
responsibility of Uttar Pradesh to him. There are 39 Castes of DNTs
and Nomads in Uttar Pradesh and until now, they were catagorised
as OBC and hence they were deprived of reservation. Understanding
this vital point, Congress arranged a big rally at Lucknow. Haribhau
was able to convince in Uttar Pradesh as to how injustice is done to
these DNTs and Nomads. The castes in Uttar Pradesh like Banjaras,
Badhel, Lodh, Rajbhar, Pal, Kahar, Dhangar (Shephard), Kashyap,
Nishad, Malllah, Bhar, Nagabhat, Kalandar, Ketwat, Jogi, Prajapati,
Kankali, Kushwah, Mewati, Ghosi, Brijwasi, Odhia, Manji, Fakir,
Dheevar, Sapera, Koli, Gujar, Ganga Putra, Bhoi and Rabbhari etc.
give lot of respect to Haribhau. Earlier Haribhau had organized a
convention in Uttar Pradesh for supporting Renke commission, but
this was the first convention under the Congress banner in Uttar
Pradesh. The state President Rita Bahuguna heaped lot of praise on 99
Haribhau. The report of this conference was published in daily
“Jagran” on 24.10.2011 under the heading “Congress wants to
convince extremely backward classes in Uttar Pradesh”. Haribhau
got very good response in Uttar Pradesh. He won hearts of one and
all in Uttar Pradesh and came to Mumbai. He was very happy.
If we include our near and dears in our happiness, it gets
multiplied. Even if it works as first aid, it gives new power to us to
face many challenges and adversities. It is humanity to include
others in our happiness and include ourselves in others unhappiness.
100
I went to caravan during Diwali. There were no Diwali
celebrations in the caravan. Everybody used to go to work early in
the morning. Due to non availability of laborers, lot of “white Gold”
(cotton) was glowing in the fields. The plants of cotton were touching
ground. There were lots of activities in the fields. I went to field with
my parents. It was second day of Diwali. I simply did not realize how
day has passed after working throughout the day in field. We took off
our “khoyali” (a type of head gear) in the evening at about 6.00
o’clock. However we were very happy because we were getting
cotton in our house. Way to my house was through hills. We
reached home late night. On the way, I received phone call from
Haribhau. The bullock cart was making noise. I told my father “wait I
am speaking to bapu (Haribhau). Haribhau was speaking with joy.
He said” Eknath, your newsletter has been very useful! It has helped me to conquer the people in Lucknow! It has given me lot of power!
Haribhau was telling me about the praise heaped on him by
Bahuguna Madam and the instances which took place in Uttar
Pradesh. At that time, I was going to my place; I was sitting on heap
of cotton. It was a day of Diwali for me. Perhaps Haribhau was
restless because he had not involved me in his joy. Ultimately, the
relation between the Guru (teacher) and student (disciple) is pure and
sensitive. Even if any one of them is successful, both are happy. I
could spend very little time with him, but could learn a lot. In the
words of Helen Keller, “The best and the most beautiful things in the
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world cannot be seen or cannot be touched; they have to be learnt
only through heart”.
The most beautiful things are hidden inside the mind, but when
these things come out, then, we come to understand that person.
Haribhau’s nature was clean, clear and selfless. Haribhau’s behavior
with every member of DNTs and Nomads was to take everybody
alongwith him. He treated everybody equally. He never discriminated
people among each other. When he was MP, he had helped lot of
members of OBC and minorities from his funds. As he is national
leader of DNTs he is raising fight for DNTs and Nomads on national
level. He has been giving importance to social work than politics.
Even though the subject of his agitation was issue of DNTs and
Nomads, he was not at all casitst. He raised voice for issue of
fishermen also. He discussed fishermen’s issue with Hon’ble Chief
Minister of Maharashtra Shri. Prithviraj Chavan.
Photo
Haribhau Rathod with Hon’ble Shri Prithviraj Chavan (Chief Minister
Maharashtra State)
As Haribhau was strong supporter of DNTs and Nomads,
community expected lot from him. There are too many people
fighting in lane (Galli) but there is only one fighting in Delhi. DNTs
and Nomads cannot forget this.
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Members of every family have different opinions. The situation
of society is much worse. Even then, Haribhau united people of
different opinions, different groups. This work was very complicated,
but Haribhau made others take notice of his organizational work at
National Level.
Haribhau is very shrewd in expressing his opinion. He is
always careful. One should learn from Haribhau where we should
speak and where we should keep quite.
Haribhau’s live interview was to be telecasted on popular TV
Channel “Loksabha” on 07.11.2011. Advocate Pallavi Renke had
sent me SMS to that effect. Shri Balkrishna Renke and Dr.
Bhalchandra Mungekar also participated. Haribhau was presenting
the issue of community very sincerely and seriously. This was his
second interview on this channel.
Haribhau’s fight did not stop whatever the topic may be,
recommendation of Renke commission or suggestions of Jadhav
Action Group.
Haribhau’s final aim was to ensure that the third list should be
made applicable to DNTs and Nomads, present the say of the
community to the government. Politics was never his subject. He
was always fighting for society, community. He was the only person
creating movement of DNTs and Nomads. Many movements have
invaded DNTs and forced their principles and isms on DNTs and
Nomads and have tried to expand their movement, but Haribhau
Rathod has stopped this invasion. Haribhau was successful in
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creating separate identity of DNTs and Nomads. This is his main
achievement and also praise worthy achievement.
Haribhau’s contribution in DNT and Nomads movement shall
remain forever in future.
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Now a days we are not finding people with feeling that some positive
action should be taken for welfare of others. In the opinion of world
famous thinker Shiva Khera, “most unfortunate part in the life of many
people is that when they die, their abilities die unutilized. Actually
they do not live the life. They rust in their life instead of getting used
up.
Some people think that the social movement should go ahead,
we should something for society, and they always consider social
good. Such people do not get rusted. They prefer to work. We
realize this in respect of Haribhau. He has been continuously using
his skill for the benefit of DNTs and Nomads within his power. Lord
Shrikrishna tells Arjuna in Bhagwad Geeta “Karmanye Vadhikaraste,
ma phaleshu kadachana, Mamanuswar yudhascha” – “keep on doing
your duty, do not expect any rewards. Listen to me and fight”. As per
this discourse by Lord Krishna, Haribhau also went on doing his duty,
but never expected any reward. He arranged Morchas many times in
Delhi and other states. He organized community of Banjara which
has typical and rich culture and other castes and communities in
other states. Then the issue may be of Nishad, Rajbhar in Uttar
Pradesh or Baldiya, Gadia, Dhangar (Shephard), Bairagi in Madhya
Pradesh or Saronia, Kotawalia, Gadalia, Chhara in Gujarat. He has
been making the movement for uniting the DNTs and Nomads in one
link, to express the injustice made to them. This movement is made
all pervasive and independent. This is the peculiarity of his style of
working and “social relation network” on national level.
105
Photo
During the winter session of Maharashtra Assembly in Nagpur in
2011, charges were being traded. During that time, disciplinary
action was taken one some MLAs of opposition parties and they were
suspended. The organization “Lokdhara” headed by Shri. Balkrishna
Renke had burnt copy of report of Jadhav Committee as a protest of
delay in implementation of Renke commission report. Why the
genuine and only demand of DNTs and Nomads that positive steps
should be taken quickly for giving them their due and proper rights is
being ignored for such a long time since achieving freedom? The first
promoter of movement of DNTs and Nomads Shri Vasantrao Naik
had laid down policies for welfare of DNTs and Nomads and had
taken care of needs of DNTs. He gave new lease of life to DNTs,
created pride among them. He made them realize that they are not
looteras, thieves, chors, beggars, but they are great fighters and
rulers. He implemented many welfare schemes in Maharashtra like
rural employment guarantee scheme, Panchayat Raj, Rural
Development, irrigation and co-operation, modern agricultural
technology, water management, granting status of state language to
Marathi language, granting revenue states to caravan, disbursement
of land to landless labor, incorporation of universities etc. He
developed state of Maharashtra in true sense. Shri Vasantrao Naik is
remembered in Delhi as a popular Chief Minister giving popular
106
administration and achieving welfare of people. He did not have
enemies. In the opinion of Sharad Pawar, Union Agricultural Minister,
Maharashtra was truly developed by Shri. Vasantrao Naik. At that
time Shri Bhamhanand Reddy was Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh.
People were discussing that “Send Vasantrao Naik to Andhra
Pradesh and bring Reddy to Maharashtra”. This speaks highly of
Vasantrao Naik.
The people from DNTs and Nomads who have graced that
position have left a very good impression. This is nature and working
style of Banjara Community. Everybody is praising the work done by
Vasantrao Naik. That will remain intact in future also. He was the
first person to initiate development and decentralization of power in
Maharashtra.
Haribhau is a ray of hope for DNTs and Nomads. Haribhau
introduced the work and unique schemes of Vasantrao Naik to the
MPs and Ministers in Winter Session of Parliament in 2008. Shri
Devendra Prasad was in Chair at that time. At that time, Haribhau
said, “Sir, revolution has come to Maharashtra due to efforts of
Vasantrao Naik.
Haribhau followed the footsteps of this great personality and
tried to expand the movement of DNTs. Haribhau is expert in
convincing others about his side and put up his say tactfully, and with
utmost honesty and seriousness. He is reflection of maturity and
sensitivity.
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Haribhau took the movement and fight at DNTs and Nomads
beyond the boundaries of Maharashtra. The pains and sufferings of
DNTs was limited upto their davol, caravan, beda and pal, but due to
intense efforts by Haribhau, these pains and sufferings were known
to entire nation when he was MP. He gave momentum to the fight
and movement to DNTs and Nomads. In his touring or speeches in
Parliament, pains and sufferings of DNTs and Nomads were clearly
seen. Once he was speaking in Parliament on this topic. He said
“The British people have done grave injustice to these DNTs and
Nomad people and now these DNTs and Nomads are suffering. Sir,
they are called DNTs but I (Haribhau) want to state that they are
freedom fighters in true sense. They staged fight for freedom.
Kantya bhilla, Birsa Munda, Saint Sevala Mharaj fought battle against
Britishers. They harassed britishers. When they would go to forest,
they would drive british people away, close the roads. During the
1857 freedom war, the britishers hanged 30,000 people in Tees
Hazari Court. 70% of the hanged people were DNTs.
Haribhau has been considering the pains and sufferings of
DNTs and Nomads from time to time. From this it is obvious that his
feelings towards DNTs and Nomads have been right from beginning
of his life.
It is need of time that our community does not lag behind in
modern times whose technology is developing fast. The lowest
constitutent of community also should not lag behind. For this
purpose, the community should be united. Considering this, every
social group is taking lead as per their capacity. Society is calling for
108
developing best capable worker from youth to come forward. It is
pleasant thing that many organizations, institutions, magazines like
Banjara Times are coming forward to strengthen social organization.
All India Banjara Seva Sanghtana is working on national level
since many decades. It has been functioning prior to the formation
of Banjara Kranti Dal by Haribhau. The first convention of Seva
Sangh was held on 30.01.1953 at Digras (Yavatmal). It was
inaugurated by Shri Lalbahadur Shastri, the then Railway Minister.
Mahanayak Vasantrao Naik, Pratapsing Ade, Gajadhar Rathod and
many other dignitaries were present at that convention.
The convention demanded that entire Banjara Community
should be included in Scheduled Castes. The Seva Sangh arranged
its next conventions as follows:- Parabhani-1954, Gulbarga-1960,
Nekkonda-1965, Penkunda-1968, Chalisgao (Maharashtra) Pusad-
1981, Aurangabad-1984, Bijapur-1988, Digras-2004. The 2004
convention concluded in presence of Smt. Sonia Gandhi, UPA
chairperson, Shri. Sushil Kumar Shinde. If we evaluate all these 10
conventions, it is true that the only demand of Banjara Community
could not be completed until now despite holding 10 conventions, but
lot of positive and permanent changes have taken place in
organizations, the communities and about their inclusion in main flow
of society. Why many capable people in community remained aloof
in past and still are remaining aloof from Seva Sangh? This question
is irritating the mind. The Seva Sangh must be dynamic and on
attacking mode. The first line of leadership of the Sangh should be
entrusted to the people having vision. The Sangha should not be
109
dominated by internal factions like Rathod, Pawar, Chavan, and
Jadhav. If firm mindset is there to unite and a nationwide agitation is
launched, Government decision can be changed.
New organizations are being formed not only among Banjaras,
but also in other communities. The success of any organization
depends on its intellectual and philosophical grounds, effective vision,
strong organization and all pervasive public relations. The DNTs and
Nomads are widely dispresed and hence it is very difficult to organize
them in a well knit community. Hira Sada Pawar, L.R. Naik, Banjara
Religious Leader Ramrao Maharaj (Poharagarh), Ranjit Naik have
given valuable contribution to this social movement at national level.
Most important contribution has come from Banjara senani Hirasing.
During that time philosophical and intellectual discussions between
Haribahu and Ranjit Naik about the community and its movement
used to be very intresting.
The leadership the movement changed according to changes in
time. There were positive and negative changes in the movement,
but Haribhau’s one man army style remained intact. As a result, the
DNTs and Nomad Community including Banjaras could be united in
one thread on national level. Haribhau was displaced in his
childhood due to Sagarkheda dam, but he could achieve the
greatness of an ocean. This is the true success of Haribhau’s social
network.
Professor Madhukar Pawar, Akola (Maharashtra) is one of the
few loyal Colleagues of Haribhau. He accompanied Haribhau
selflessly throughout Haribhua’s carrer. Madhuakar Pawar also 110
aimed sincerely at developing and improving Banjara Society right
from his youth. He was appointed as National Secretary of the
sangha because of his typical style of working. He organized 11 th
convention of the Sangh at Barshi Takali in June, 2012. Shri Mukul
Vasanik, Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment, DR. M.
Shankar Nayak, Adv. Shri Shivajirao Moghe Minister for Social
Justice Maharashtra, Congress State President Manekrao Thakrey,
National leader Haribhau Rathod, Amar Singh Tilawat, Babulal
Banjara and many other dignitaries were present.
Photo
The unhappiness and displeasure of Banjara Community due to
pendency of Renke commission was evident in the convention. The
atmosphere became hot and dynamic due to speech in Gormati
language by Adv. Raju Naik. People expected lot from both ministers
because they were from Vidarbha. Many demands for Banjara
Community were being placed by the Speakers on Dias.
1. Just like Maharashtra, the Banjaras and DNTs all over India
should be given separate reservation and budget in the Center.
2. As per the resolution put up by Mrs. Sonia Gandhi, President of
National Advisory Council, in their meeting held on 20.04.2012,
the schemes DNTs and Nomads should be implemented by
Central Government.111
3. Just like Karnataka, the Central Government should Constitute
National caravan Development Corporation and provide
Rs.2,000/- Cr for the corporation in the Budget.
4. To constitute Development Board for DNTs and Nomads.
5. Vasantrao Naik Banjara Research and training institute should
be constituted at Barshi Takli (Akola), Central and State
Government should render financial help for the institute
6. The criteria of Non Creamy Layer should not be made
applicable for Banjaras and DNTs.
7. As per the resolution passed by the Maharashtra State
Assembly, the Prabhani Agricultural University be named after
Vasantrao Naik.
8. “Ashram Shalas” (residential schools) should be constructed all
over India for children of Banjaras, DNTs and Nomads.
9. Just like SC/ST students, scholarships for Banjaras, DNTs and
Nomads should be increased.
These important demands were submitted in this convention.
Many dignitaries were seated on Dias. I (Eknath Pawar) got golden
opportunity to sit in fourth row on the Dias. Every sentence ultered by
Haribhau in Hindi, Marathi, and Gormati in his speech was very
important and great. When he said “my dear brothers and sisters, Jai
Sevalal”, there was huge applause of claps. The spectators were
chanting slogan “Haribhau Rathod, Zindabad, tum aage badho”. The
then Union Minister for Social Justice Mukul Vasnik and Minister
Shivaji Moghe were surprised by watching Haribhau’s popularity.
Even though Haribhau was not a Minister, MP or did not have any
important post in the party, his hard work for community and follow up
112
for Renke commission was acknowledged and appreciated by the
people. Hence people shouted “Haribhau Zindabad”. Haribhau said
“The Banjara Community is spread from Jammu-Kashmir to
Kanyakumari and from Kutch to Cuttack. It is deprived of justice, and
it must get justice. If the Government still delays implementation of
Renke commission, the Community shall not waste time in adopting a
different approach”.
“We will support only those who will approve our demands.
Today the DNTs and Nomads are oppressed. Vasnik Sir, Moghe Sir,
how many more days we should remain out of social flow? For how
many days more we should suffer injustice? We are ready to fight if
our demands are not met. Every caravan is bubuling with anger and
frustration. Now their issues and problems will have to taken seriously
like the reservation granted by shri Vasantrao Naik in Maharashtra,
DNTs and Nomads in other states also should be granted
reservation. Now the time has come to appoint development Board
at National level for development of caravans. Now it has to be
considered as to how the DNTs and Nomads can be educated. How
the exploitation, helplessness, blind faith in caravan, pal, birhad
(family) shall end. How we can change others’ view towards us and
can make it positive? How can our agenda be made effective on
National Level? Personalities like Vasantrao Naik, Babusing Naik,
Hirasingh Pawar, Ramsingh Bhanavat, Chandram Guruji, spent their
life for building up the society. We have to develop creative
generation following their footsteps. Let us be united to implement
vision of Vasantrao Naiksaheb and implement the recommendations
of Renke Commision. Let us remain united. Let us fight together. 113
We will be certainly successful in times to come. I am sure that the
proposal put up by UPA Chairperson Smt. Gandhi before NAC shall
be approvaed at an early date”.
Everybody was impressed by Haribhau’s speech. Afterwards
many dignitaries expressed their thoughts.
The then Union Minister Mukul Vasanik said “Government is
sensitive towards demands of DNTs and Nomads and
recommendations of Renke commission. The community shall
certainly get justice in time to come. We are concerned with the
frustration and anger developing in Banjara Community. Banjara
Culture is a typical and special culture of India. It touches hearts of
India. Please ensure that the culture develops properly. The
dissatisfaction, anger boiling in the minds of our friend Haribhau
Rathod, Dr. M. Shankar Naik and others who have come from
different states and are my Gormati brothers and sisters, is natural.
All demands of Banjara Community are under consideration. I shall
certainly try to give you justice. I congratulate Shri Madhukar Pawar
for his hard work. My best wishes are there to Banjara Community
for development.”
That time Mukul Vasnik certainly won the hearts of people
present for the time being but I don’t think Banjara Community shall
believe promises of any political leader, because now Banjara
Community follows modern “B” policy. Banjara Community has
changed old “B” policy. But freedom is a specialty of old policy as
well as new policy and it shall remain so.
114
I went on commenting on the speeches of Dr. M. Shankar
Nayak, Manekrao Thakrey, Haribhau Rathod, Amarsing Tilawat,
Advocate Raju Naik, Shivajirao Moghe, Mukulji Vasanik. I
understood the reactions of Shri. Govindrao Chavan (author of
weekly Banajra Pukar) who was seated near me on Dias,
Sarichnadra Jadhav, editor of weekly Sathi Banjara about the stand
taken by the government. I also heard discussions that in future Prof.
Shri. Madhukar Pawar shall become leader and give important
contribution for development of society.
115
The contribution of Mahanayak Vasantrao Naik, main promoter
of modern movement of DNTs and Nomads to the movement is
unforgettable and very important. It is giving strength to new
generation. Similarly the efforts taken by Haribhau Rahtod for
expanding the movement of DNTs on national level are very
praiseworthy and noteworthy. There are many political leaders,
social worker, Journalist, Writers, organizations, weekly and monthly
publications working for the movement of DNTs and Nomads.
Workers like Banjara Kesari Makharam Pawar, Mahadeo Jankar,
Laxman Mane, Laxman Gaikwad, Prof. Hari Narke, Prof. Madhukar
Pawar, Sanjay Rathod, Mayor Shewantabai Pawar (First Banjaran
Mayor in India), Prakash Shedge, Machindra Bhosale, Harischandra
Pawar, Advocate Pallavi Renke, Prof. Motiraj Rathod, Mayor Alkatai
Rathod, Ramji Ade and many other workers have been taking lot of
efforts to ensure that the most depressed people at the bottom of the
society get justice. Similarly many workers are working hard in their
respective fileds without expecting any reward. It is a matter of
pleasure that revolutionary changes are taking place in Banjara
movement, and the movement is getting new, fresh, efficient and
capable “Vasant Sainik”.
The other castes in DNTs look towards Banjaras as “Elder
Brother”. Bajaras should take care of small castes in DNTs and
Nomads which are spread everywhere. Banjaras should keep on
taking lead to oppose the injustice made to these smaller castes.
Banajaras should take smaller castes together on larger scale.
Similarly other smaller castes also should support this “big brother”
and fight the battle in a united manner. This is the need of hour. If 116
everybody goes in his separate way, to entire movement shall lose its
way. Selfish motives of some people will be served, but the
movement will be over.
It is necessary to think as to why the movement of DNTs and
Nomads is not successful as others’ movements? What can be done
to make it more effective? Everybody should forget their personal
grudges and make introspection of this matter.
Mahanayak Vasantrao Naik says about the movement.
“Everybody should be devoted for the success of the movement. The
movement cannot be successful if only we develop or improve. Our
brothers and sister living out of village should be brought in main
social flow and their self respect should be developed.
The DNT Community gave popular leadership in the form of
Marotrao Kannamwar, Vasantrao Naik, and Sudhakarrao Naik. The
work done by all three Chief Ministers is honorable, praiseworthy and
motivating to others. Haribhau, who rose to fame as an active worker
of this movement, never differed from the thinking of these three
Chief Ministers. He took all pervasive view and kept on working on
his mission. As a result, there were many positive changes and
development in Maharashtra and other states. This movement has
given great contribution in creating awareness in women. As a result,
Smt. Shevantabai Somsingh Pawar was elected as mayor of Solapur
Metropoliton Council. She became the first woman Bajaran to
become mayor. The women went on getting opportunities of
representation. Shrimati Nishatai Naik was elected as president of
Washim Zilla Parishad. Adv. Pallavi Renke was elected on 117
30/12/2011 as lady representative on Nomadic Tribes commission.
Smt. Alkatai rathod was elected as mayor of Solapur Metropoliton
Council in March 2012. These are the results of positive movements.
However, in camparison with the needs of time, the representation
and participation of women is negligible.
118
2012-13 is the birth centenary year of the first Chief Minister of
Maharashtra Yashwantrao Chavan and also of father of green
revolution Shri. Vansatrao Naik. Maharashtra Government declared
in the Budget Session this year 2012-13 as birth centenary year of
Shri. Yashwantrao Chavan and made budgetary provision of Rs.200/-
Crores for this purpose, but this year was not declared as birth
Centenary year of Vasantrao Naik who really developed Maharashtra
and gave popular government to Maharashtra for long time.
Haribhau Rathod discussed this matter with Chief Minister Shri
Prithiviraj Chavan to lodge protest against this injustice. Many
organizations raised voice against this injustice, memoranda were
sent to the government protesting against this injustice. Haribhau
kept on follow up of his demand that the year be declared as
centenary year of Shri. Vasantrao Naik in the Winter Session of the
Assembly, and the Parabhani Agricultural University be named after
Vasantrao Naik.
I (author Eknath Pawar) requested Haribhau Rathod to follow
up of issues of declaring the year 2012-13 as centenary year of Shri.
Vasantrao Naik, naming Parbhani Agricultural University after him
and also the issue of appointing Banjara candidate on the
Maharashtra state Legislative council because Maharashtra does not
have sufficient number of representatives of Banjara Community in
the house compared to its population. I (Eknath Pawar) also raised
these issues through news papers.
I had arranged function “Vasantvarsha-2012” on this occasion
at Umred (Nagpur). Haribhau Rathod presided over the function.
119
Local BJP MLA Shri Sudhir Parve enlightened the people about great
work done by Vasantrao, especially in decentralization of power. He
alleged that the government is ignoring the great work done by
Vasantrao Naik. The dignitaries praised me for organizing this great
function. Many representatives from various castes, religions, parties
were present for the function.
After the function, Haribhau was engaged in discussions with
representatives from some caravan near Nagpur. Some ladies in
traditional Banjara attaire were telling their woos to him and he was
listening them sympathetically. He was consoling people, speaking
with them; people were feeling happy that they have a leader
sympathizing with them. Haribhau urged local MLA Sudhir Parve to
sort out the issues of these caravans.
Haribhau never misses any programs of DNTs and Nomads,
whatever the location is because he has true concern of lowest
worker. At the time of Kranti Dal Morcha at Azad Maidan, Haribhau
went from caravan to caravan and pasted the posters himself. Any
work done for the movement is always great.
Every movement brings changes. There were political and
social movements in Center and State. Earlier, one had to wait for
breaking news, but it seems that the media need not wait for breaking
news. On the other hand, there is a confusion which news is to be
telecasted as breaking news. Arvind Kejriwal was levying changes
every day through the movement “India against Corruption”. The
scamsters were scared. There was political storm in Maharashtra on
the issue of irrigation backlog and white paper. Under these 120
circumstances, every leader, minister, senior officer was engaged in
strengthening his side, then how they will remember demands of
DNTs and Nomads? Similarly, the issues and problems of DNTs and
Nomads could not be presented in the Center as well as State
because they were not adequately represented. If there are no
representative who shall raise the issue, then who has time to spare
for Renke commission and other sensitive issues? History has
proved that whosever can brings pressure on the rulers and follows
up their issues consistently; can only get their demands approved.
Taking this into consideration, Haribhau Rathod has been
continuously following up Renke commission and other issues of
DNTs and Nomads.
In the meanwhile, the then Law Minister Salman Khurshid
brought proposal of granting reservation to minorities through OBC
quota. At that time Haribahu also submitted demand of granting 7%
reservation to DNTs and Nomads just like minorities. This news was
published by Press Trust of India (PTI).
Our demands may be sensitive, but in order that they should be
accepted, continuous follow up of the matter is essential. Hence
Haribhau tried to move the issue of DNTs and Nomads with the
Central Government by taking help of leaders in North India and
South India with the object that by whatever way, the DNTs and
Nomads must get justice. He has been taking untiring efforts for this
mission of justice for DNTs and Nomads.
Perhaps the ruling party has realized that the DNTs and
Nomads are unhappy about non acceptance of their demands. With 121
this reason and also taking into account the work done by Shri. P
Balram Naik in Andhra Pradesh, Shri Balram Naik was given a bearth
in Ministry. Haribhau was also continuously following up the issues of
Banjaras and DNTs and hence the Banjara Community got an
important representation in the form of
P. Balram Naik. He got important portfolio of social justice and
empowerment. The DNT and Nomads were very happy due to this
appointment and also because Ms. Shailaja Kumari was appointed as
Union Social Justice Minister at Cabinet level. The community’s
expectations from both have naturally increased.
Mrs. Sonia Gandhi took note of Haribhau’s mission and sent
him a message.
“I learn that the Renke commission report is under active
consideration of Government of India and I hope that the efforts of
Rathodji shall yield positive results and these DNTs and Nomads
shall get the rights which they deserve”.
I (Eknath Pawar) had never dreamt that I shall be able to write
about the work of Haribhau Rathod and this great leader of DNTs and
Nomads shall be my Guru, but my keen attraction towards DNTs
have pulled me towards the work.
In every culture, may be Indian, European, Roman, Gypsy, it is
duty of the student to give Gurudakshina (tution fees) to his Guru
(teacher). Eklavya gave his thumb to Drnocharya. Socrates gave
promise to this teacher that he will spread the philosophy of making
122
the world happy throughout the world. I also decided to give
Dakshina to my Guru and this book is my Guru Dakshina!
Haribhau is the diamond I found in heap of garbage and he has
now reached the hearts of common man.
We are very proud that Haribhau. He hails from a small caravan
of Wagda and now he is working hard at Central level in India. His
work shall be guiding factor for future generations. It will be worth
noting in future. This Gormati son who created lot of things out of
nothing has been working hard. He has been working hard for uniting
all people. His aim is to work hard for society till last breath. His aim
shall create new energy amongst the people.
Haribhau is the motivating force for DNTs and Nomads and he
ensured that DNTs and Nomads are noticed at central level. He has
worked hard for uniting people together. In future also he shall
continue to work. Haribhau who has risen up from his social work
shall always be close and dear to the hearts of common men and
DNTs and Nomads. We salute him and his work.
“Came to rescue in stormBecame ray of hope in darkYou brought Hari in the movementCreated relationships in movement!Sevalal; you are great, we bow to you.You have given us this diamond and lighthouse”
123
Annexure
Prime Minister
New Delhi
15 September, 2008
Dear Shri Rathod,
I have received your letter of 31 August, 2008 requesting for
giving Constitutional protection and privileges to De-notified and
Nomadic Tribes of India.
I have had the matter examined. The Minsistry of Social
Justice and Empowerement had been requested to speedily examine
the recommendations of the National commission for De-notified,
Nomadic and semi-Nomadic Tribes. The Ministry has completed the
examination. It is hoped that the matter will soon come before the
Cabinet.
With regards,
Yours sincerely,
(Manmohan Singh)
Shri. Haribhau Rathod, MP
Ashwini Towers, Darwha Road, Yavtmal.
Maharashtra – 440 001
Copy to:
Smt. Margaret Alva,
General Secretary, AICC, 12, Safdarjung Road, New Delhi - 110011
124
Backside Cover Page
*Maharashtra State is developed and prospered as a result of vision
and hard work of Mahanayak Vasantrao Naik. It is a progressive
state. Eknath Vishwanath Pawar is a genius writer and a crusader in
the movement of DNTs, hails from this state. He is born at
Sevadasnagar, Taluka Manora, District Washim in well cultured
middle class farmer’s family. He himself has experienced the pains
and problems of caravan. He took impartial note of sufferings and
pains of people in the caravan and wrote stories about them. He has
written about pains and sufferings of all backward class, weak people
who have been ignored and his writings are mainly about social
movements of this class. He is well known as “Vedanakar” in the
movement.
*Shri. Eknath Pawar has received “Yuva Puraskar” of NYS. This
puraskar (award) is sponsored by Ministry of Youth and Sports,
Government of India. His song “Swapnavedi tu sakhi ga mazi” is very
famous. Well known music Director Baba Jahagirdar has given
music to this song. Since last 8-9 years he has been writing articles
in popular news papers. His book “Vedana” depicting pains and
sufferings of DNTs and Nomads is published in 2009. His poems are
have been broadcasted from Nagpur Radio Center many times. His
heart touching poems has been published in many reference books
and collection of poems.
*Shri. Eknath Pawar has been enthusiastically participating in social
work. His contribution to social organization and social transformation
is noteworthy. He has sorted out many issues of DNTs and Nomads.
125
He had conceived and made propaganda of Naik thoughts. He has
taken up mission of making propaganda of modern thoughts and
vision of Mahanayak Vasantrao Naik. He has selflessly doing the
work of bringing ancient kshatriya Banajara Culture and pains and
sufferings of DNTs and Nomads in a new manner in literature.
*He says “I am writing, fighting and burning only for the purpose that
the caravan should be global, those who have been denied justice,
should get it”. His presentation of social issues is heart touching. It
brings the pains and sufferings of the society effectively before the
society. This is the peculiar characteristic of his literature and social
work and style.
126
