TNI Bureau: A violent clash between police and villagers over road construction in the Sijimali mining area under Kashipur block of Rayagada district has created a serious and alarming situation. Taking note of the incident, a delegation from the Biju Janata Dal visited the site to assess the ground reality and interacted with local residents to understand the developments firsthand.

The delegation stated that it is crucial to identify the root causes behind the unrest and properly understand the grievances of the people. Emphasizing the importance of safeguarding tribal rights over land, water, and forests, the team asserted that all development activities must respect these fundamental rights. They also stressed the need to maintain peace and ensure that public opinion is duly considered in finding a lasting solution to the issue.

The visiting team included Athagarh MLA Raja Swain, Rayagada district BJD president Jagannath Saraka, Koraput district president Jhinna Hikaka, former Tribal Development Council chairperson Anusaya Majhi, former minister Rabinarayan Nanda, Koraput Lok Sabha candidate Kaushalya Hikaka, Rayagada Zilla Parishad chairperson Saraswati Majhi, Koraput Zilla Parishad chairperson Sasmita Melka, BJD Rayagada working president P. Gouri Shankar Rao, Dableswar Naidu, and other local leaders.

The delegation concluded by urging that the situation be resolved through dialogue and peaceful means, ensuring justice and stability in the region.