Rayagada district witnessed violent clashes late Monday night when villagers opposed road construction linked to the Sijimali mining project.
The confrontation in Shagabari village left 30 police personnel injured, including SDPO Gourahari Sahu and IICs from Kashipur and Andrakanch.
Police reported that villagers attacked officers with stones, axes, and traditional weapons while resisting construction work. Seven officers sustained serious injuries, with one shifted to Visakhapatnam for advanced treatment. Others received care at Rayagada District Headquarters Hospital and Kashipur Community Health Centre.
The unrest erupted as locals strongly opposed the Vedanta-linked road project, part of the Sijimali mining expansion. Protesters raised “Go Back” slogans and blocked construction with traditional arms. Police used tear gas to disperse the crowd.
Authorities imposed Section 144 in Shagabari, restricting gatherings of more than four people within 100 meters of the road for one month. District Collector Asutosh Kulkarni and SP Swati S. Kumar visited the site to monitor the situation.
The clash highlights long-standing tensions in Kashipur over mining projects. Despite government approval, local communities continue to resist, citing concerns over displacement and environmental impact.
