Congress legislators in the Odisha Assembly accused the state government of deliberately delaying the implementation of the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act, known as the PESA law.
They argued that tribal communities continue to lose land, livelihood, and rights while the government avoids enforcing the legislation.
Leader of Congress Legislature Party Rama Chandra Kadam raised the issue during zero hour, stating that tribal families are being displaced from their ancestral land due to mining and industrial projects. He alleged that the government is following a “stalling policy” to benefit industrialists and allow exploitation of natural resources. Kadam warned that tribal unrest could intensify if the government fails to act.
Congress MLA C.S. Raazen Ekka reminded the Assembly that the Prime Minister had promised implementation of the PESA law during the 2024 elections. He said both the Chief Minister and Governor mentioned the law in their speeches, yet no progress has been made. Ekka demanded the formation of a House Committee to study land acquisition practices and ensure accountability.
Congress MLA Tara Prasad Bahinipati criticised the government for making repeated announcements without action. He said the revised draft proposal of the PESA law was reportedly prepared, but its status remains unclear. He urged the Speaker to direct the government to stop mining tenders until the law is enforced.
