TNI Bureau: Tension is escalating in Gajapati district ahead of the proposed “Mahendra Mela” at the historic Mahendragiri hills, with tribal organisations announcing a massive protest against the event. The agitation is being led by the Adivasi Mahasangha and the Biswabasu Shabar Sanskruti Suraksha Manch.

The groups have declared a gherao of the District Collector’s office on May 29 and have submitted a formal memorandum to the Gajapati Collector and Superintendent of Police. Organisers claim that over 5,000 tribals from three districts are expected to gather in Paralakhemundi to participate in the protest.

As part of the agitation, demonstrators plan to march through the town carrying traditional weapons, hold a massive rally, enforce road blockades, and stage a sit-in outside the Collectorate.

The protest is centred on the administration’s preparations for the “Mahendra Mela,” which tribal leaders allege has no historical or cultural linkage with the indigenous traditions of Mahendragiri. They have accused the administration of attempting to erode tribal identity and marginalise the native Shabar culture through a state-sponsored event.

Several prominent Shabar community leaders and members of the Odisha State Committee of the Adivasi Mahasangha are expected to join the agitation. In their memorandum, the tribal outfits warned that the district administration would be held responsible for any law-and-order situation arising during the protest.