Keonjhar/Raisuan: Even as the mining sector is going through a slump, mechanised excavation and loading of minerals at Gandhamardan mine owned by OMC in Keonjhar has enraged locals.
Aggrieved people have long been protesting for jobs in mines, but their demand has allegedly been pushed aside by the mining firm.
Tension ran high in the area Wednesday with thousands of people from nearby villages swarming the Keonjhar police station. The mining-affected people had gathered at Ghuturu Tuesday evening and were on their way to the Collectorate Wednesday when the police detained them.
Police said that the rally was illegal as the agitators had not taken permission. The agitators had come closer to a confrontation with police. Police detained 131 people.
Over 3000 people from 25 villages including Suakati, Naupada, Mahadeijoda, Amuni, Salarapentha, Danla, Baradapal, Talakainsari, Upara Kainsari staged protests in front of the police station here for hours.
Police held talks with the agitating people and tried to convince them, but the latter refused to relent.
The agitating people were firm in their demand that the OMC should withdraw machines from all kinds of work in the mine so that it will pave way for their jobs.
“The mining firm has been causing air and water pollution, making us ailing. Even iron dust particles lay over our farmland, obstructing paddy cultivation. We have lost our livelihood,” some agitating people shouted.
Others asserted that the OMC has assured the mining-hit people of jobs well before starting its mining work, but later it reneged on its promise on the job front.
“The company has snatched out rice bowl and engaged machines in its work. We were left jobless in our land,” they added.
They warned that they would not step back from agitation under any circumstances unless they are provided with jobs, by replacing machines. Locals demanded that that administration immediately intervene in the matter. ASI Umakant Sahu said that the protestors were taking a rally without permission and efforts were on to arrest their leaders.
The mining-hit people made it clear that that the agitation will be intensified.
PNN
