Villagers from nine Raigarh-area villages have begun an indefinite protest at JSW’s gates, accusing the steel giant of betrayal, environmental damage, and misuse of CSR funds.
RAIGARH (India CSR)/Chhattisgarh: Tensions have escalated in Nahrpali, Raigarh district, as local villagers have launched an indefinite protest against JSW Steel, accusing the company of betrayal, anti-people policies, and large-scale violations of commitments made to affected communities.
The protest, which began on August 12 at the gates of the JSW plant, has been declared as a “Work Halt and Road Blockade” (Chakka Jam) until demands are met. Villagers from Singhanpur, Nahrpali, Kurubhanta, Salihabhanta, Lodharhar, Bilaspur, Raksapali, Tilaipali, and Bhupdevpur have united to stage what they call a “mega agitation” to force the company to address their seven-point charter of demands.
Allegations of Broken Promises and Exploitation
Protesters claim that JSW failed to provide employment to people whose land was acquired for the project, despite earlier assurances. The company has also been accused of ignoring pollution control measures, misusing Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds, and failing to channel those funds into genuine local development.
In addition, villagers have levelled serious allegations of road encroachment by the company, harassment of workers, and discriminatory hiring practices.
Warning of Escalation
The agitators have warned that the movement will intensify if their demands are not met immediately. The protest is expected to draw massive participation in the coming days, potentially leading to a complete halt in operations around the plant.
Local administration and JSW management are under mounting pressure to take swift action to defuse the growing crisis. However, with both sides holding firm, the standoff threatens to spiral into a prolonged industrial and social confrontation in one of Chhattisgarh’s key industrial belts.
(India CSR)
