BJD Rajya Sabha MP Dr Sasmit Patra wrote to Union Tribal Affairs Minister Jual Oram seeking immediate intervention in the ongoing conflict at Sijimali, Odisha.
He highlighted indiscriminate police action against protesting tribal communities opposing a proposed bauxite mining project.
Dr Patra expressed concern over injuries suffered by tribals during the protests and stressed the need to safeguard their rights and dignity. He emphasised three key issues: protection of tribal communities from police excesses, ensuring free and informed consent of Gram Sabhas in mining activities, and adherence to statutory safeguards under PESA and the Forest Rights Act.
He urged the Union Minister to engage with the Chief Minister of Odisha to address the situation and restore confidence among affected communities. Dr Patra noted that Jual Oram’s roots in Odisha and his position as Union Tribal Affairs Minister make his intervention crucial in de-escalating tensions.
Dr Patra insisted that Gram Sabha consent must be respected and statutory protections enforced to prevent further unrest. He concluded by stressing that timely and balanced intervention would help achieve an amicable resolution while protecting the rights of tribal communities in Sijimali.
ALSO READ:
