Marang Buru
The Marang Buru, known as Parasnath Hill, is religious site in Jharkhand. It holds sacred value for both the Santal Adivasi and Jain communities. The Jharkhand High Court recently enforced a ban on the sale and consumption of meat and alcohol on this hill, denoting a long-standing inter-community conflict.
Historical Significance
Parasnath Hill is revered by Jains as the place where 20 of the 24 tirthankaras attained nirvana. The hill features over 40 Jain temples. The Santals, on the other hand, view Marang Buru as a deity and hold it as a vital part of their cultural identity. The hill is not just a religious site but also a historical symbol of resistance against oppression, particularly during the Santal Hul rebellion of 1855.
Religious Practices
For Jains, Parasnath Hill is a pilgrimage site where they perform rituals and seek spiritual liberation. The Santals celebrate the Sendra festival, a three-day hunting ritual that is integral to their cultural heritage. This festival has often sparked tension, as it contradicts Jain dietary practices, which advocate for vegetarianism.
Legal and Political Context
The conflict over Marang Buru has been documented since 1911, with various legal battles over hunting rights and religious practices. Despite the historical acknowledgment of Santal rights, post-Independence policies have increasingly restricted these rights. The Wildlife Protection Act of 1972 and subsequent designations of the area as a wildlife sanctuary have diminished Adivasi access to their sacred sites.
Recent Developments
In 2023, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change issued a memorandum banning the sale of meat and alcohol within a 25 km radius of the hill. This directive has been met with resistance from the Santal community, who argue for their traditional rights. The recent High Court ruling reinforces this ban, leading to increased law enforcement in the area.
Community Dynamics
The relationship between the Santal and Jain communities has been complex. Historically, they coexisted, with mutual respect for each other’s traditions. However, modern legal frameworks and socio-political pressures have strained this relationship. The Santals continue to assert their rights through local organisations, seeking to reclaim their cultural practices.
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