Bhubaneswar, April 11: Sasmit Patra, Member of Parliament from the Biju Janata Dal (BJD), has written to Union Minister for Tribal Affairs, Juel Oram, requesting his immediate intervention in the tense situation in Sijimali, Rayagada district, Odisha. The region has been the site of severe police action against tribal protesters opposing a proposed bauxite mining project, resulting in injuries on both sides, including several tribal individuals.

Patra expressed grave concern over the escalating violence and underscored the following key points in his appeal:

• Protection of Tribal Communities: The urgent need to shield tribal populations from the excessive and indiscriminate use of police force.
• Free, Prior, and Informed Consent: Ensuring that Gram Sabhas are consulted and give their free, prior, and informed consent before any mining activities proceed.
• Compliance with Legal Protections: The importance of upholding statutory protections under the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act (PESA) and the Forest Rights Act, which safeguard tribal rights.

In his letter, Patra called for swift action by Oram to prevent further violence and to uphold the rights, dignity, and safety of the tribal communities. He also urged the Union Minister to engage with Odisha’s Chief Minister to address the concerns stemming from the recent police crackdown.

Patra highlighted that, given Oram's strong connections to Odisha, his immediate intervention could carry significant weight in resolving the issue and protecting the interests of the tribal people.

"Your intervention at this critical juncture will instill great confidence among the affected tribal communities. The matter must be resolved through dialogue and legal processes, ensuring that the provisions of PESA and Gram Sabha rights are strictly followed," Patra wrote.Bottom of Form