JUDGMENT

MOHAN, J.:- The petitioner Khedat Mazdoor Chetna Sangath is a registered Trade Union of Bhil, Bhilala, Mankar and Naik tribals of Alirajpur Tehsil in Jhabua District of Madhya Pradesh. It was started in October 1982. The object was to protest against and prevent the exploitation of the tribals. The construction of Sardar Sarovar Dam on the river narmada is again another issue for which the petitioners association has been fighting for.

2. In the high hills of the Vindhya range, south of Jhabua District, massive deforestation has taken place. This has resulted in degradation and the productivity has reduced. So much so, Jhabua has become chronically drought prone area. This has led to large scale crime, the people being poor wanted to make both ends meet.

3. The petitioners association has fought for access to forest resources which has been denied to them. Today, equally it has taken a crusade against corruption. The Sangath has strengthened the traditional tribals custom of community resolution of disputes through Nyaya Panchayatas, corrupt police officials have been publicly arraigned, departmental enquiries have been instituted on complaints lodged; cases have also been l