Resentment erupts over Vedanta’s bauxite mining at Sijimali in Odisha

Resentment is brewing over Vedanta’s bauxite mining from Sijimali hills in Kashipur. The locals are now up in arms as the construction agency roped in by the company is allegedly trying to carry out mining operations without holding any Palli or gram sabha.

It is alleged that several tribals, who are opposing the plan, are being picked by police and are being slapped with serious charges. Several families are now desperately waiting for the return of their family members. 

The entire village wears a deserted look as already 21 persons have been arrested who had united against Vedanta fearing loss of livelihood and homes. It is alleged that several serious charges including murder and links with Maoists have reportedly been registered against them. Fear prevails in around eight villages under Kashipur police limits. 

Locals said that Vedanta has won the tender for mining bauxite from Sijimali hills. However, the contract for carrying out the excavation has been awarded to Mythri Infrastructure Ltd- a private company from Andhra Pradesh.

Before mining operations, forest and environmental clearance along with the permission of the revenue department is required. Besides a gram sabha or palli sabha is also mandatory. But as per the allegations, it has not been done.

It is pertinent to mention here that the locals launched a massive protest last month. Resentment is brewing as it is alleged that the company using police tried to suppress the movement and picked up several people in a midnight crackdown. Though police had picked Sindurghati sarpanch’s husband, she refused to comment fearing police action.

Baliarsingh Majhi, a local resident said, “When we talk about development, they are resorting to hooliganism, and with the help of police false cases are being registered. We are not being able to say anything.”

Majhi further said, “We do not know the Maoists and who they are. If anything is happening in the village, we want a Gram sabha or palli sabha so that everybody knows.”

Meanwhile, politics is now active in Odisha over the administration's arbitrary action and atrocities on the tribals of the region. A BJP leader said that under no circumstances the lawlessness unleashed by the company will be tolerated.

BJP leader, Bhrugu Buxipatra, said, “Those who will ask questions or protest in a democratic manner, false cases will be registered and they will be sent to jail. Whatever was happening at Kodingamali, the same is being repeated by Vedanta in Sijimali. But a massive protest will be held if anything is done arbitrarily.”

Jivandei Majhi, a local resident said, “We want our hills and mountains and cannot sell them to companies. Around 200 to 300 police came and arrested some villagers.”

The Congress, on the other hand, alleged that cases are being slapped against the Advasis, who are fighting for their rights. Why no action is being taken against the company for violating the norms, questioned Congress.

“The demands of people are also genuine. But the way police, company’s goons and others are working is really unfortunate,” said Congress leader, Sarat Buruda.

Ruling BJD leader, Rabi Nanda said, “CM Naveen Patnaik has always focussed on industries, mining and at the same time emphasis is being laid on extending all facilities to people residing in these areas. Stern action is taken against those indulging in any negligence.”