The debate over implementing the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996 (PESA) in Jharkhand has taken a contentious turn, with the discourse now entangled in a Sarna vs Church divide. In this report, we travel to Gumla District, a Scheduled Area in Jharkhand, to explore how this communal spin is shaping the conversation around PESA. Originally designed to empower tribal communities by granting them control over resources and decision-making, the debate has shifted from its core objectives to a broader cultural and religious conflict. This communalization of the issue is not only detrimental to tribal society but also risks further delaying the passing of PESA rules, which are crucial for tribal self-governance and development. This report highlights how the Sarna vs Church debate complicates the framing and passage of PESA rules. The delay in implementing PESA not only stalls tribal empowerment but also leaves communities vulnerable to exploitation and displacement. As the state navigates these complexities, the voices from the Gumla District underscore the need to move beyond communal divisions and focus on the collective goal of preserving tribal identity, culture, and self-governance.