The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has strongly condemned the alleged brutal actions by the administration against tribal communities in the Sijimali area of Rayagada district, describing the incident as “completely inhuman” and reflective of the ruling BJP-led state’s anti-tribal policies. The party has urged the President of India to intervene and ensure justice for the affected villagers.
Addressing a press conference at Sankha Bhawan here today, Rayagada District President Jagannath Saraka, Koraput District President Jhina Hikaka, and Media Coordinator Dr Priyabrata Majhi accused the state government of suppressing peaceful protests by tribals opposing violations of the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act (PESA) and Forest Rights laws.
Jagannath Saraka said a BJD delegation visited the affected areas on the instructions of the party leadership and interacted directly with victims and local residents. According to the locals, they were peacefully protesting against the construction of a road by a mining company in the region. The delegation gathered first-hand accounts of alleged repression and atrocities by the administration.
“Industrial development cannot come at the cost of tribal interests and oppression. Gram Sabhas must be conducted strictly as per law, and free, prior, and informed consent obtained to protect tribal rights,” Saraka demanded.
Shri Jhina Hikaka termed the alleged late-night attack — when villagers were asleep and electricity was reportedly cut off — as barbaric and unacceptable in a civilised society. He highlighted that tribals were protesting peacefully against the expedited mining activities, which they claim violate constitutional protections in the Scheduled Area.
“It is deeply unfortunate that such atrocities are occurring against tribals in Sijimali when the state has a tribal Chief Minister and the country has a tribal woman from Odisha as President,” Hikaka said, adding that the BJD has sought immediate intervention by the Hon’ble President of India to deliver justice and safeguard the communities.
The incident stems from ongoing tribal resistance in Sijimali hills against a proposed bauxite mining project (auctioned to Vedanta Ltd. in 2023) and the construction of an approach road, with locals raising concerns over livelihood impacts, water sources, forest rights, and alleged irregularities in obtaining Gram Sabha consents.
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