50 Dalit families in Odisha to return to native village after 25 years

As many as fifty Dalit families will have a homecoming as they are poised to reclaim their rightful place in Bali Chhai village, located in Odisha’s Ganjam district, after 25 years of displacement. This return is facilitated by the local administration following reduced tensions among the community groups.

Community reconciliation in progress

As per reports, a recent meeting at the Aska block office marked a significant step towards the resettlement process. Sub Collector of Bhanjanagar, the Tehsildar, and the Block Development Officer (BDO), along with key representatives from various community factions were present in the meeting. The discussions centered on ensuring the safe and dignified return of the affected families by demarcating their land plots and initiating the reconstruction of their homes. They are most likely to return to their village on February 24.

A legacy of conflict

As per sources, the expulsion of these families more than two decades ago stemmed from escalating disputes between the dominant social groups and the marginalised dalit community within the village. Tensions reached a level that necessitated the families to abandon their homes, becoming displaced for a quarter of a century.

Renewed hope amidst rehabilitation

Over the years, numerous attempts were reportedly made to facilitate the return of these families, but all were in vain until this current initiative. The renewed efforts bring a glimmer of hope to these families as they anticipate reclaiming their land and integrating back into their community.

“We were away from the village for the last 25 years. It was a very tough time for 50 families in the village. The studies of our children were affected. They are now forced to work as labourers to earn their living,” said Laxmi Nayak, a victim.

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“The administration had called the villagers for the resolution of the conflict between two communities. We were forced to give signatures for demarcation purposes. However, the signatures will have no value in the future. The matter could only be solved by the villagers,” said Prashant Kumar Sahu, a resident of Balichhai village.

“A date has been fixed for demarcation. The committee members were there at the meeting and they promised us not to oppose the move and to cooperate with us. The demarcation work will be conducted in the presence of police,” said Bhanjanagar Sub Collector Umakant Behera.