The Hindu : New Delhi News : Biodiversity Act, Rules opposed

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Wednesday, Dec 08, 2004

New Delhi

New Delhi

Biodiversity Act, Rules opposed

By Our Staff Reporter

NEW DELHI, DEC. 7. Claiming that the Biological Diversity Act 2002 and Rules 2004 undermine the communities dependent on biodiversity for their livelihood, environmentalists in the city stated that the Act and Rules go against the concept of public participation. Opposing the Act and the newly notified Rules, various groups from across the country are planning a citizen's rally on Wednesday near Paryavaran Complex here in the Capital.

They would also be presenting a memorandum to the Union Minister for Environment and Forests. The rally would be preceded by a discussion at Bhartiyam Gram near Humayun's Tomb.

According to environmentalists, the Ministry of Environment and Forests has made a "mockery'' of public participation.

"After the draft of Biodiversity rules were put up for public comments in 2003, several citizens and groups sent their concerns and suggestions. Unfortunately, none of these were taken into consideration by the Ministry. By doing this, the Ministry has undermined the role and capacity of communities towards biodiversity conservation. This is further strengthened by the absence of a serious dialogue with various stakeholders,'' remarked Kanchi Kholi of Kalpavriksh.

Environmentalists also claim that that Act endorses Intellectual Property Rights. "We are against traditional knowledge being patented. This is facilitating what people are fighting against. Even if the Act left any space for discussion, the Rules completely undermine it,'' she said.

Participating in the rally would be the People's Alliance for Livelihood Rights, Deccan Development Society, Centre For World Solidarity, Kalpavriksh, Delhi Forum, Green Foundation, Gene Campaign, and Beej Bachao Andolan.

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