The Battle Over Tribal Land and Resources Reaches a Critical Juncture
RAIPUR/JHARSUGUDA/BHUBANESWAR (India CSR): The recent events in the Koraput, Rayagada, and Kalahandi districts of Odisha reveal a disconcerting pattern of heavy-handed suppression of anti-bauxite mining activists. These arrests, backed by stringent laws, and even an abduction, reflect a harrowing portrait of state repression. Notably, Chhattisgarh Kisan Sabha has issued a firm denouncement of these actions, underlining the blatant violation of constitutional safeguards for tribal communities by the Biju Patnaik-led Odisha government.
The Arrests and Abductions: More than Just Detentions
Over 25 activists have been arrested within the span of a month, and the charges leveled against them aren’t minor. Laws like the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) have been wielded to stifle dissent. Among the arrested are prominent figures like Lingaraj Azad, Lenin Kumar, Dranju Krishika, and others. It’s hard to escape the conclusion that these arrests aim not just to silence these individuals but also to send a chilling message to others who dare to protest.
The Shocking Case of Praful Samantara
In a shocking development, Goldman Environment Prize-winning activist Praful Samantara was abducted while on his way to address a press conference. His abduction, presumably orchestrated by pro-corporate factions, signifies a darker twist to the ongoing struggle. It points toward an alarming escalation of tactics being used to squelch opposition.
Corporates vs Constitutional Rights
According to the Chhattisgarh Kisan Sabha, the Odisha government seems to be blatantly flouting Supreme Court orders that clearly restrict mining activities in scheduled tribal areas without obtaining forest rights and the consent of gram sabhas (village councils). With this endorsement, the government appears to be in alignment with corporate entities like Adani-Birla who are suspected of illegal mining activities in these regions.
Also, Read Odisha Plans For A 130 MMTPA Steel Output By 2030.
A Violation of the Samata Decision
In what can only be described as a blatant violation of judicial mandates, the government seems to be acting in direct contravention of the Supreme Court’s Samata decision, which states that private companies cannot undertake mining in scheduled areas. This indicates not just an administrative failure, but also an institutional crisis where the rights of vulnerable tribal communities are being bartered for corporate gain.
Calls for Reprieve and Reforms
Kisan Sabha leaders have vehemently demanded the cessation of repressive measures against activists, along with the withdrawal of false cases against them. They’ve also insisted on the effective implementation of the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act (PESA) and the Forest Rights Act, which are designed to protect tribal interests.
The Crux of the Matter
The core issue extends beyond illegal mining and touches upon the very sovereignty and dignity of indigenous tribal communities in India. If we don’t challenge the usurping of these lands today, we risk erasing the identity of an entire culture tomorrow. The Kisan Sabha’s outcry is a wake-up call not only for the government but for every citizen who believes in justice, equality, and the rule of law.
(Copy Right @ India CSR)
