TNI Bureau: The Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (OPCC) has announced a massive padayatra against alleged injustice and exploitation by industrial houses in the state, particularly in mineral-rich and industrial zones such as Jagatsinghpur.

Addressing the media at Congress Bhavan in Bhubaneswar on April 24, OPCC president Bhakta Charan Das strongly criticized the state government for what he described as its “indifferent attitude” towards the suffering of common people affected by industrial expansion.

Das alleged that due to the government’s arbitrary industrial policy, several companies have started eyeing Odisha’s mines and mineral-rich lands for exploitation. He said people who have been living on their land for generations are being displaced instead of being granted land rights, as the government is prioritizing corporate interests over the rights of local communities.

He pointed out that similar displacement issues have surfaced in places like Kalinganagar, Chhendipada, Talcher, Mayurbhanj, and Rairangpur. He also noted that while the government has approved mining in 34 coal blocks across the state, even in areas where work has just begun, people are already facing displacement without proper rehabilitation or support.

To protest against this, Congress will begin an eight-day Maha Padayatra from Dhinkia in Jagatsinghpur district on April 26. The march will pass through the POSCO-affected region and conclude in Bhubaneswar on May 3 with a massive gathering at Lower PMG.

Leaders from across Odisha and senior Congress leaders from various Pradesh Congress Committees are expected to participate. A delegation will also meet the Governor and submit a memorandum highlighting the concerns of displaced communities.

Responding to questions on the Sijimali issue, Bhakta Charan Das said he has always stood for tribal rights, recalling his long struggle in the Niyamgiri movement where he spent years with Dongria Kondh tribals to protect their land and identity.

He said the Sijimali issue is different and concerns unjust displacement and administrative repression. If invited by the local people, he said, he would certainly visit and support a peaceful movement.

Das reaffirmed that Congress will continue its fight for justice for tribals, Dalits, and displaced communities across Odisha.