Rayagada, 14/01/2025: As Odisha prepares for the Utkarsh Odisha Conclave to attract industries, tribal and Dalit communities have opposed giving bauxite from Kodingamali to companies outside the state. Groups like Kodingamali Bikash Parishad and Adivasi Mahasangh gathered at the Koraput and Rayagada Collectorates to submit a memorandum to the Chief Minister, asking the government to support local industries and keep earlier promises.
The communities stated they were promised during Gram Sabha meetings that Odisha’s bauxite would be used by industries in the state to create jobs and boost development. They feel betrayed by the recent decision to allocate these resources to an external company, which they believe hurts the region’s growth.
The tribal groups said the decision ignores their sacrifices, as they gave up their land for industrial progress. They criticized the external company for not investing in Odisha and called this move unfair. They asked the government to make resource allocation fair and transparent, prioritizing local development.
The organizations clarified they are not opposing the government but seeking justice. They demanded the cancellation of the bauxite allocation to outside companies and urged the state to use the resources for Odisha’s industries. They requested action within seven days to honor the promises made to local communities.
