Tribal Religion Code: सरना या आदिवासी? Who represents Tribal Identity?

The demand for a separate tribal religion code in India's upcoming census has reached a crucial national stage. With the upcoming 'Adivasi Bachao Maharally' in Ranchi and the 'Nyay March' planned from Nashik to Delhi, the movement seeking a distinct religious identity for tribal communities is gaining unprecedented momentum. However, a major internal debate has emerged within the tribal community itself regarding the official nomenclature of this proposed code: Should it be named 'Sarna Religion Code' or 'Adivasi Religion Code'? In Jharkhand, Chief Minister Hemant Soren and various regional organizations have long advocated for the 'Sarna Religion Code' to preserve the distinct cultural and spiritual heritage of local indigenous tribes. On the other hand, several national tribal leaders argue that the term 'Sarna' does not universally represent all tribal communities across India—such as the Bhils, Gonds, Santhals, Mundas, Oraons, and others—suggesting that 'Adivasi Religion Code' would be a more inclusive classification. #TribalReligionCode #SarnaCode #SarnaVersusAdivasi #HemantSoren #JharkhandPolitics #AdivasiRights #NyayMarch #YBNNews #LiveDebate #TribalIdentity