TV
Tension erupted in Barapurugia village as residents, who lost their land due to the Lower Suktel project staged a protest, locking the office of the Chief Engineer of the project in Bolangir. The protestors, who alleged that they had not received compensation for their acquired land, took to the office early Wednesday morning, forcing a halt of operations. Authorities, including local police and the SDPO, had to reach the spot to address the grievances and reach a resolution.
Surendra Kumar Bhoi, Chief Engineer of the Lower Suktel project, said, “I arrive at the office around 8 am every day and leave around 7 pm in the evening. Today, around 9:30 am, I heard loud noises and went outside to investigate. I found the protestors had locked the gates, and the police arrived shortly after.”
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He further added, “The collector had already been informed about these people and their complaints. I am unaware if anyone previously appointed to this position was involved in corruption. I cannot speak to anything that may have happened before I took over the role.”
Sanjay Kumar Mandal, the SDPO in charge stated, “The protestors are demanding compensation, claiming that some portions of their land were affected as well. Based on their claims, they have organized this protest. We have contacted the local Tehsildar and other authorities, and a meeting is being arranged to find a resolution. Though they locked the gates this morning, we are optimistic about reaching an agreement soon.”
As of now, the authorities are making efforts to resolve the issue and bring both sides to an agreement.
