The Khandadhar Suraksha Samiti in Sundargarh district would resort to a three-day Satyagraha at Khandadhar from January 26 demanding that the State Government and the Centre declare Khandadhar as mining-free zone.
Besides, a mass rally would be held on the last day. Activists and leaders representing various people’s movements from across the State and outside including social activists Medha Patkar, Rajendra Singh and Dayamani Barla from Jharkhand would join the protest rally.
Expressing solidarity, the lokshakti Abhiyan would extend its support to the Satyagraha at Khandadhar to protest the proposed lease of the hills to companies for mining activities, said Abhiyan president Prafulla Samantara at a Press meet here on Tuesday. The Abhiyan chief would remain present at the spot and keep fast for the three days.
“The Government has conspired to lease out the Khandadhar hills, surrounded by forests and waterfalls, to Posco or any other company for mining purpose which would affect the environment. Besides, it would also affect the livelihood of the Paudi Bhuyan community there,” said Samantara.
Hence, both the State and the Union Governments should declare the two Khandadhar hill ranges having waterfalls in Keonjhar and Sundargarh districts as mining-free areas.
For protection of the hills, the Abhiyan has placed a four-point charter of demands, including ban on mining activities in 25 km radius surrounding the hills and recognition to Khandadhar as National Natural Heritage, said secretary Kalyan Anand.