Bhubaneswar: Biju Janata Dal (BJD) MLA from Lanjigarh, Pradip Kumar Dishari, Sunday supported the demand for opening bauxite mines in Kalahandi, stating it is vital for the development of local communities.
Dishari extended his backing to the protest held Saturday at Lanjigarh under the banner of Lanjigarh Anchalik Vikash Parishad (LAVP), which sought the immediate opening of local bauxite mines.
“The opening of bauxite mines is not just an economic necessity but also a social imperative,” the MLA said, pledging to stand with the people until a favorable decision is taken.
He highlighted that despite India possessing over 5 billion tonnes of bauxite reserves, the country still imports more than 4.5 million tonnes annually, draining thousands of crores from the national exchequer.
Also Read: Kalahandi locals demand bauxite mines for Vedanta
“Odisha holds some of the world’s richest bauxite reserves, yet we remain dependent on imports. This is a betrayal of our people and our potential.
Without local mining, thousands of youths leave Kalahandi every year in search of work,” Dishari added. Recalling the 2008 Supreme Court judgment under Justice SH Kapadia, he said it laid down a clear framework for responsible mining, mandating sustainable practices, allocation of 5 per cent profits for local community development, afforestation, ecological restoration, groundwater and wildlife protection, and a comprehensive Tribal Development Plan.
Dishari assured locals that he would raise their concerns with Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and personally pursue the matter at the highest levels of government to ensure the voices of Kalahandi’s people are heard.
PNN
