In a significant intervention amid escalating tensions in southern Odisha, Malvika Devi, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Member of Parliament from Kalahandi, has written to Union Minister of Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy, highlighting the “ongoing disturbance” in the Sijimali region spanning Kalahandi and Rayagada districts.
In her letter, Devi emphasized the deep dependence of local tribal communities on the Sijimali hills for their livelihood, sustenance, and cultural identity. She urged the minister to address fears of displacement, environmental degradation, and loss of traditional rights with “utmost sensitivity.”
The MP placed three key demands before the Union Minister:
- Review of Clearances
- Verification of Gram Sabha Consent
- Protection of Tribal Rights and Ecology
She stressed that development must proceed through dialogue, consent, and compassion, adding that she stands firmly with the people of Sijimali and Kalahandi.
Background of the Conflict
The Sijimali hills, rich in high-grade bauxite deposits (estimated at around 311 million tonnes), have become the epicentre of protests by indigenous communities since the Odisha government allocated the mining block to Vedanta Limited via auction in 2023. The project spans approximately 1,549 hectares, including substantial forest land, and is intended to feed Vedanta’s alumina refinery at Lanjigarh.
Tribal villagers, many from Fifth Schedule areas, fear that mining will destroy their forest-dependent livelihoods, sacred sites, perennial streams (over 200 reported in the area), and a critical elephant corridor. Protests intensified recently when authorities attempted to construct an approach road to the site, leading to violent clashes on April 7, 2026, in villages like Kantamal. Reports indicate dozens injured on both sides, with police using tear gas and allegations of excesses from both communities and activists.1
Villagers, organized under forums like the Maa Mati Mali Suraksha Manch, allege that Gram Sabha consents were obtained fraudulently and that provisions under the Forest Rights Act (FRA) and PESA Act have not been properly followed. The project has received Stage-I forest clearance conditionally, but concerns over irregularities persist.38
Political and Administrative Context
Malvika Devi, often referred to locally as “Rani Saa” due to her connection with the Kalahandi royal family, represents the region in the Lok Sabha. Her letter comes at a time when multiple political parties, including the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), Congress, and Left groups, have condemned alleged police actions and visited affected villages to express solidarity with the tribals.
