The Mulanivasi Manch has demanded upgradation of Mohana constituency to a civil sub-division. There are four blocks in Gajapati district such as Rayagada, Nuagada, R Udayagiri and Mohana, while each block has four tehsils. Mohana is the largest constituency.
The Manch stated that the demand is a long standing one. Already a steering committee has been set up to fight for the cause comprising leaders of various political parties, journalists, advocates, social activists and common people. There would be a meeting of the committee on August 1 next.
In 1992, the people of the block had demanded for a new sub division. The town is a business hub and a hill station. It shares border with Kandhamal, Rayagada and Ganjam districts and some parts of Andhrapadesh also.
Manch convenor Rabi Rathan said Mohana constituency is between Mahindragiri and Rusimala hills with a population of 290,000 living in 520 revenue villages.
For revenue and administrative works, the Dalits and tribals of the area have to travel a distance of 180 km, he argued, and demanded that the Government should upgrade the block at the earliest.
Meanwhile, MlA Basanti Mallick claimed that the issue had been brought to the notice of the Chief Minister, who in turn had assured that he would look into the matter.