Notwithstanding the fierce protest by locals, the district administration of Kendrapara on Saturday began execution of the drinking water project on Kharasrota river amid tight security.
As many as 22 platoons of police force has been deployed at the project site while 100 police officials mobilised to prevent any untoward incident.
After two days of violent protests which saw arrest of a large number of locals, the situation was brought under control by the administration.
Also Read
Meanwhile, the BJP accused the administration and police of highhandedness and demanded immediate release of those arrested in connection with the protests.
“Bharatiya Janata Party strongly oppose the arrest of protestors and forceful execution of the drinking water project. The agitators are not murderers. If the project is not withdrawn immediately, the BJP will take the agitation to the villages and intensify it,” said Kishore Panda, president of Kendrapara district BJP unit.
On the other hand, Kharasrota Banchao Sangram Samiti (KBSS) has decided to launch indefinite strike against the project from tomorrow.
“Among the arrested are those who underwent heart surgery barely a couple of days ago. However, the police did not spare them too. We will hold relay strike in all Panchayats and it will continue for months. The agitation will continue until our demands are met,” said Devendra Sharma, Convenor of KBSS.
The State Congress has also constituted a fact-finding committee to inquire about the drinking water project. The five-member led by former minister committee Panchanan Kanungo will visit the project site tomorrow.
It can be mentioned here that the mega drinking water project at Bharigada is facing stiff opposition from the locals. On August 12, as many as 24 local residents were arrested for opposing the project.