Bhutuda Panchayat Residents Protest for 35 Days, Warn of Highway Blockade

Sundargarh: Frustration and anger are mounting in Bhutuda Panchayat of Sundargarh district’s Lahunipada block as villagers continue their protest for the 35th consecutive day. They are demanding justice and employment opportunities from the Odisha Mining Corporation’s (OMC) Kurmitar mine. With no resolution in sight, the protesters have warned that they will block the highway if their demands are not met.

The protest is driven by growing dissatisfaction over the impact of mining activities on local communities. The OMC Kurmitar mine, which increased its annual mining output from 3 million tonnes to 6 million tonnes, had acquired land, water, and forests from the villagers with promises of development and employment. However, residents claim that instead of benefits, they have only received damaged roads, dust pollution, and a series of tragic accidents.

Many educated young men and women in Bhutuda Panchayat remain unemployed despite the rapid expansion of mining activities. Poor infrastructure further adds to their struggles, with several villages still lacking proper roads, electricity, and clean drinking water. While water accumulates in the iron-rich mines, villagers face severe shortages of potable water. Electricity supply remains erratic, with meters running for months without actual power supply.

To address these longstanding issues, a Gram Sabha meeting was held on September 22, 2023, under the leadership of Sarpanch Basanti Munda and ward members. The meeting resolved that local residents should be given priority employment in OMC’s operations, with 50% of mining, loading, and related work reserved for them. A demand letter was subsequently submitted to OMC authorities and the district administration. However, despite nearly 18 months passing, no concrete action has been taken. Villagers accuse the mining authorities of repeatedly postponing commitments without providing any real solutions.

Frustrated by the lack of response, villagers began their protest on January 6, 2025, in front of the OMC mine. Led by Bhutuda Panchayat Development Committee President Ranjit Patra, along with leaders such as Shantanu Keraketta, Kiran Kandulana, Rohidas Luhura, Sabar Giri, and Bishnu Patra, more than 100 villagers have been participating in the demonstration.

As tensions escalate, protesters have now issued a stern warning—they will shut down mining operations and block key roads if their demands are not met. “If we have to go to jail for our rights, we are ready,” declared one of the villagers, highlighting their determination to fight for justice.

With the protest entering its second month, the situation remains tense. All eyes are now on the authorities to see if they will take meaningful action or allow the crisis to deepen further.