The Business Bytes
THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU
BHUBANESWAR, JANUARY 13, 2025
As the State government prepares for the much-awaited Utkarsh Odisha conclave aimed at attracting major industries to the region, thousands of members from various tribal and Dalit organisations have voiced their strong opposition to the allocation of bauxite resources to industries outside Odisha.
Representatives from Kodingamali Bikash Parishad, Adivasi Mahasangh, Harijan Mahasangh, Adivasi Mahila Sangh, and Domb Samaj of Kodingamali gathered at the Koraput and Rayagada Collectorate on Monday to show solidarity with local industries that have consistently contributed to the socio-economic upliftment of their communities.
In a memorandum submitted to the Odisha Chief Minister through the respective district Collectors, the organisations emphasized the need for protection of their mineral rights and the fair allocation of Odisha’s bauxite resources. They called for transparent and equitable practices that would prioritize the state’s interests and benefit its people.
Odisha, known for its rich mineral resources, has long been seen as a hub for industrial growth and socio-economic progress. However, the recent decision to allocate bauxite from Kodingamali to an external entity has sparked outrage among local communities. During Gram Sabha consultations, assurances were given that the bauxite would be reserved for industries investing in Odisha, establishing refineries and smelters, and creating local employment opportunities.
“It is ironic and disheartening that such a valuable resource has been allocated to an external company that neither invests in Odisha nor contributes to its socio-economic growth. This move undermines the trust of the local population,” the memorandum stated.
Tribal communities, who had given up their land with hopes of regional development, now feel betrayed by this decision. The organisations made it clear that their appeal is not an adversarial stance against the government but a plea to honour the commitments made to the people of Odisha.
The groups have requested the government to reconsider its decision and cancel the allocation of the bauxite resource to the external industry within seven days. They urged authorities to prioritize local industries in future allocations and ensure transparency in the process, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding the state’s resources for its own growth and development.
