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States » EastPosted at: Apr 22 2025 10:44PM


BJD seeks NCST's intervention on death of tribal protester during RSP Rail Line expansion

Bhubaneswar, Apr 22 (UNI) The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has sought the intervention of the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) in the tragic death of Ettua Ekka, a tribal protester from Barkani village in Sundargarh district.
In a memorandum submitted to the NCST through its Regional Office in Bhubaneswar, a BJD delegation highlighted the grave violation of tribal rights and the alarming administrative apathy that allegedly led to Ekka’s death on April 20, during a peaceful protest against the expansion of a railway line for the Rourkela Steel Plant (RSP).
Ekka, a 35-year-old member of the local tribal community, was reportedly crushed to death by an excavator in the presence of police, law enforcement, and RSP officials while attempting to prevent the encroachment of community land.
The BJD stated that the incident has sparked grief, anger, and fear across the region, raising serious concerns about police conduct, misuse of force, and the criminalisation of peaceful protest.
The memorandum called for a suo motu inquiry by the Commission, an independent investigation into Ekka’s death and the role of local authorities. It also demanded that FIRs be registered against the responsible officials and RSP personnel and urged the NCST to protect tribal land rights and review past land acquisitions.
Additionally, the memorandum sought the immediate withdrawal of FIRs lodged against innocent tribal protesters and the initiation of a structured process of dialogue and mediation between the administration and tribal communities.
The BJD emphasised that this is not merely a law-and-order issue but a matter of tribal dignity, justice, and constitutional protection. It urged the Commission to act decisively to ensure accountability and prevent such state-sponsored injustices in the future—especially against tribals and common citizens.
The Biju Janata Dal reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the rights and welfare of Odisha’s tribal communities and vowed to continue raising its voice against injustice.
UNI DP ARN
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