Generally it is alleged that local people are exploited and harassed by private sector companies whose main motive is to make profit, but the State-owned OMC (Odisha Mining Corporation) doesn't lag behind on the front as well.
This has come to light when villagers of Palasa GP under Joda block of Keonjhar district met the Collector at the Collectorate on October 11 and put forth their grievances against the OMC.
Their main grievances include neigence by company in providing jobs to the local youths. They alleged that all non-Odias outside the State are given preference in job and contract works over locals.
The villagers are left to live in miserable conditions in polluted area by consuming dust and smoke generated from mines, they complained.
Their specific complain was that on 27/08/2021, a public hearing meeting was held for the expansion of mines controlled and managed by OMC,Barbil coming under the jurisdiction of Palasa GP. At that time ,the villagers had co- operated with the company and gave their hundred percent support to expansion of the mines. The OMC authority had also assured that the villagers will be given first preference in employment ,contract work and transporting . Accordingly , the OMC mines started operation after getting approval from the National Green Tribunal but the villagers were shocked to know that the State owned company forgot all it's assurances.
In this regard,the villagers did not forget to mention that they apprehend a big racket operating in the sector cannot be ruled out.
Moreover, the villagers alleged further that the transporting company is harassing them with local police force when villagers are raising their voices against the sympathy of OMC towards outside State agency. But the villagers declared that they are ready to face any consequences and even go for Jail Bharo strike if their grievances are not addressed.
Collector, Keonjhar, Ashish Thackre is learnt to have assured the villagers to look in to the matter.