Local leaders rallied against policy paralysis
For quite some time, there has been widespread frustration regarding the inaction over resource utilisation. It was more evident from the demonstration led by LAVP president Sridhar Pesnia and supported by community leaders, including the Lanjigarh Block vice-chairman, Zilla Parishad members, tribal elders and transport associations. Protestors in the rally further pointed out that Kalahandi’s own resources remain untapped due to excessive reliance on imports. Not only is it an economic loss, but it is also a missed opportunity for social development. As of now, India imports more than 4.5 million tonnes of bauxite annually, even though domestic reserves exceed 5 billion tonnes.
Local leaders during the Friday rally have emphasised the fact that the opening of the mines is not only a business imperative, but also a socio-economic demand. For example, the opening of the bauxite mines can ideally help in supplying raw materials to the alumina refinery at Lanjigarh, which was commissioned in 2003 and continues to face raw material shortages. It affects industrial stability and job creation at the same time.
Leaders have also pressed for Gram Sabha consultations under the PESA and FRA frameworks to ensure legal compliance and community participation, arguing that mining can proceed responsibly while directly benefitting villages.
