BJD Seeks Presidential Intervention Over Alleged Tribal Atrocities in Sijimali

Bhubaneswar, April 11: The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has strongly condemned the alleged atrocities against tribal communities in the Sijimali area of Rayagada district and urged the President of India to intervene and ensure justice.

Addressing the media, Rayagada district BJD president Jagannath Saraka, Koraput district president Jhinna Hikka, and media coordinator Priyabrata Majhi alleged that the state administration acted inhumanely towards tribal residents. They termed the incident as reflective of “anti-tribal” policies under the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led state government.

According to Saraka, a BJD delegation visited Sijimali following reports of the incident and conducted an on-ground assessment by interacting with affected villagers. He stated that locals had been protesting against the construction of a road linked to the Sijimali Bauxite Mining Project, but instead of addressing their concerns, authorities allegedly resorted to force.

He further emphasized that development initiatives in tribal areas must follow due process, including mandatory Gram Sabha approvals under existing laws such as the PESA Act and forest regulations.

Echoing similar concerns, Hikka condemned the reported actions of police and administrative officials, calling them unacceptable in a democratic society. He alleged that despite peaceful protests by villagers, authorities carried out a late-night operation, disrupted electricity supply, and used force against residents.

Highlighting the gravity of the issue, Hikka noted that both the state’s Chief Minister and the President of India come from tribal communities and appealed for immediate intervention to safeguard tribal rights.

The BJD has demanded accountability and swift action to address the grievances of affected communities.

Notably, on April 7, tensions escalated into a violent clash during protests over the construction of a three-kilometre approach road for the mining project, leaving over 60 people, including police personnel and tribal residents, injured.