Christoph Von Furer Haimendorf, a professor from Austria, was appointed by the Nizam to study the tribal communities of Hyderabad State, focusing on groups like the Chenchus and Gonds. His research is documented in his book “Tribal Hyderabad”.
Haimendorf lived among the Gond people in Marlawai, Adilabad district, and actively engaged in addressing their issues through various programs and assemblies which continue to this day.
Persistent Alienation of Tribal Lands
Historical exploitation by landlords, business classes, and even through corrupt practices has led to the widespread alienation of tribal lands, particularly evident in regions like Khammam district where lands were often transferred under pretexts such as adoption or marriage.
Despite legal protections, manipulation of land records and corrupt practices by revenue officers facilitated the continued occupation of tribal lands by non-tribes.
Legislative Efforts and Judicial Responses
Various laws were enacted to protect tribal lands, including the Scheduled Areas Land Transfers Act of 1959 and the 1 of 70 Act, which aimed to secure tribal land ownership and restrict transfers to non-tribals.
However, implementation was often weak, and legal battles have prolonged the resolution of land disputes, with non-tribals exploiting legal loopholes to maintain control over tribal lands.
