Organised by Adivasi Sangskritik Unnayon Sangstha (ASUS), the discussion was followed by a cultural function marking the Bhaha and Sarol festivals.

ASUS executive director Rajkumar Shaw presided it while Godagari upazila assistant commissioner of Land Shahidul Islam Bhuiyan was present as chief guest.

The speakers demanded recognition of their language and enactment of law to protect their traditional culture.

'The indigenous people have a distinctive culture and heritage, but those are being lost into oblivion due to lack of government patronisation and 'haughtiness' of local Bangalees,' they said.

They also demanded of the government to give back their land rights and ensure their educational rights.

Among others, indigenous leader Jakob Hasda, Kabius executive director Modhushudon Maitra, Rajshahi district unit leaders of National Adivasi Parishad Lakhi Tudu and Bangamin Shasda spoke.

At the cultural function. Santal and Orao dancers enthralled the audience by presenting traditional dances of indigenous people.

Performers also depicted the lifestyle of indigenous people in drama and song.

A large number of indigenous people including Santal and Orao people of northern districts attended the day-long programme.

Earlier, a big colourful procession was brought out to mark the occasion. The processionists paraded different streets of Kakonhat town. They chanted various slogans carrying banners and festoons in favour of their demands.

Bimal Chandra Sarker, a leader of Rajshahi district unit of National Adivasi Parishad read out a set of their demands at the discussion.