Hemchand Manjhi, renowned for his expertise in traditional medicine, recently announced his decision to return the Padma Shri award.
· In light of the mounting threats and safety concerns for himself and his family, Manjhi has made the difficult decision to return the Padma Shri award.
· This move comes in response to escalating threats from Naxalites, who have targeted Manjhi and his family.
· Naxalites set fire to two under-construction mobile towers in Chameli and Gaurdand villages, accompanied by banners and pamphlets specifically targeting Manjhi.
· Tragically, Manjhi’s nephew, Komal Manjhi, fell victim to Naxalite violence in December last year.
· Expressing dissatisfaction with the current living conditions provided by the administration, Manjhi appealed for proper housing facilities.
· The Aamdai Ghati iron ore mine, allotted to Jayaswal Neco Industries Limited, has been a focal point of opposition by Naxalites.
Hemchand Manjhi, renowned for his expertise in traditional medicine from Narayanpur district, recently announced his decision to return the Padma Shri award, India’s fourth-highest civilian honor. This move comes in response to escalating threats from Naxalites, who have targeted Manjhi and his family. Despite receiving the prestigious award just last month for his significant contributions to traditional medicine, Manjhi now finds himself in a precarious situation.
The situation worsened when Naxalites set fire to two under-construction mobile towers in Chameli and Gaurdand villages, accompanied by banners and pamphlets specifically targeting Manjhi. The pamphlets, which included a photo of Manjhi receiving the Padma Shri from President Droupadi Murmu, accused him of facilitating the Aamdai Ghati iron ore project in Chhotedongar and receiving substantial kickbacks. However, Manjhi vehemently denies these allegations, asserting his innocence and clarifying that he has no involvement with the mining project.
In light of the mounting threats and safety concerns for himself and his family, Manjhi has made the difficult decision to return the Padma Shri award. This announcement, made after discussions with his family, also entails discontinuing his lifelong practice of traditional medicine. Manjhi emphasized that the award, though a recognition of his lifelong service, was not sought by him but bestowed upon him for his contributions, particularly in providing herbal remedies for various ailments, including cancer.
Tragically, Manjhi’s nephew, Komal Manjhi, fell victim to Naxalite violence in December last year. The accusations against Komal, alleging his involvement in the Aamdai Ghati project, further exacerbated concerns for the safety of the Manjhi family. As a precautionary measure, they relocated to Narayanpur town and have been residing under police protection. However, the recent threats have forced Manjhi to reconsider his safety and future course of action.
Expressing dissatisfaction with the current living conditions provided by the administration, Manjhi appealed for proper housing facilities. He highlighted the lack of a boundary wall, water supply, and other essential amenities in the house allotted to him and urged the administration to address these issues promptly.
The Aamdai Ghati iron ore mine, allotted to Jayaswal Neco Industries Limited, has been a focal point of opposition by Naxalites. Manjhi’s decision to return his award underscores the severe impact of Naxalite threats on local communities and individuals committed to public service, reflecting the broader challenges faced by those advocating for change in conflict-ridden regions.
(With inputs from agencies)
