Environmental Racism And Its Impact On The Life Of Tribals At The Instance Of Environmental Degradation

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Praveena. C, Research Scholar, Government Law College, Thrissur, Kerala

ABSTRACT:

‘Environmental racism’ has its legacy on the American racial discrimination. It is embedded in the concept of social inequality. Environmental racism refers to any policy, practice or directive that differentially affects or disadvantages individuals, groups or communities based on race or colour. Globalization has increased the opportunity for environmental racism on an international scale. The tribal’s are the most affected population due to the liberal attitude of the governments towards multinational corporations. The increased industrialization and mining activities in the forest areas leads to the depletion of the natural resources upon which the tribal’s depend for their livelihood. India having 2nd largest tribal population in the world are given special protection in the constitution under 5th & the 6th schedule. Even if there are numerous legislation which try to uphold the life and dignity of these people there are drawbacks in implementing them. One of the classic examples of environmental racism is the Plachimada case. The location of the Coco Cola plant was in the area where the primitive tribes of Eravalar and Malasar reside. Within six months of its operation, the people started fighting against the Plant for appropriating the ground water resources, polluting their surroundings and loss of livelihood. The struggle at Plachimada continues to this date. The ‘polluter pays principle’ will just remain as a constitutional doctrine not effective in redressing the environmental harm, if the tribal’s fail to get the compensation they deserve from the company. This is not merely a struggle against Coca Cola but all predatory capitalists who are destroying lives, resources and environment. So ‘Environment Justice’ is the need of the hour that is all people and communities are entitled to equal protection of environmental laws. Environmental racism is part of the broader picture of systemic racism, which must be fought to bring about a fairer society.

Keywords: Environmental Racism, Inequality, Environmental Justice

ENVIRONMENTAL RACISM AND ITS IMPACT ON THE LIFE OF TRIBALS AT THE INSTANCE OF ENVIRONMENTA.

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