TNI Bureau: Highlighting growing tensions in Odisha’s tribal belt, Malvika Devi has written to Union Coal and Mines Minister G. Kishan Reddy, seeking immediate attention to the situation in the Sijimali (Sirjimalli) region.

In her letter dated April 18, 2026, the Lok Sabha MP from Kalahandi drew attention to unrest affecting parts of Kalahandi and Rayagada districts. She underscored that a large section of the local population, particularly tribal communities, depend heavily on the Sijimali hills for their livelihood, cultural identity, and sustenance.

The MP flagged concerns over fears of displacement, environmental degradation, and erosion of traditional rights, stressing that these issues must be handled with sensitivity and due process.

She emphasized that development initiatives in such ecologically and socially sensitive zones should not proceed without building trust and ensuring community participation.

Placing key demands before the Centre, Malvika Devi called for a comprehensive review of all project clearances in the region. She also sought verification of Gram Sabha consent, a crucial requirement under tribal and forest rights frameworks. Additionally, she urged the government to ensure strict protection of tribal rights alongside ecological safeguards.

“The situation on the ground requires urgent intervention to maintain faith in democratic processes,” she noted, advocating for dialogue-driven development rather than unilateral decisions.

The letter reflects increasing political attention on the Sijimali issue, which has seen local resistance over concerns tied to mining and land use. With tribal livelihoods and environmental sustainability at stake, the MP has called for prompt action from the Union government to address grievances and restore confidence among affected communities.