“Tribals continue to remain neglected as policymakers never take into account the community’s interests. This is the reason tribals have become weak and are lagging behind economically, academically, intellectually and politically,” he said.

“There are certain forces in the society that want to divide tribals over issues related to ‘jal, jungle aur jameen’ and displace the community by tampering with laws such as the Chotanagpur Tenancy Act and Santal Paragana Tenancy Act. They are also attacking the tribal culture and traditions,” he alleged.

Soren said Jharkhand was once identified with tribals, but the community has been marginalised in the state over the last two decades.

“But, you people have voted my party to power, and I can assure you all that my government will not allow anyone to tarnish the honour and self-respect of the community,” he told the gathering, calling upon the tribals to unite.