Odisha’s BJD Forms Committee to Intensify Protest Against Polavaram Project

BHUBANESWAR: The ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD) in Odisha has established a committee to escalate its opposition to the Polavaram multipurpose project in neighboring Andhra Pradesh, which is being supported by the BJP-led central government.

The committee, chaired by former minister Atanu S Nayak, includes members Debi Prasad Mishra, Pradeep Majhi, and Bhrugu Baxipatra. Its mandate is to intensify the protest against the project, which Odisha alleges has been unfairly promoted and funded by the central government at the expense of the state’s interests.

The committee members are scheduled to visit areas in Malkangiri district, such as Motu and Padia, which are likely to be affected by the project. Former MP Pradeep Majhi criticized the BJP-led government for granting national project status and financial support to Polavaram, claiming it has negatively impacted Odisha.

The BJD’s move underscores the party’s strong stance against the Polavaram project, which it argues poses a significant threat to Odisha’s interests and local communities. The committee’s activities are expected to amplify the state’s protests and advocate for reconsideration of the project’s implications for Odisha.