The locals sat in dharna and closed the main entry gate of the Joda East Iron Mines of Tata Steel on Thursday.
Sources revealed that there is a continuous row between the local tribal people of Joda Basti under Joda Municipality and the company over the issue of employment and encroachment of graveyard etc.
Their specific demand is that Tata Company has built township by acquiring their land and a camp for the company's security personnel has been built by encroaching the ground meant for graveyard. Besides, the locals alleged they are a victim of dust pollution and related problems.
They said in spite of this, they have been extending their support to the company at the time of public hearing for expansion, but when it comes to employment, outsiders are appointed, ignoring the local candidates.
Around 100 locals held the dharana and threatened to continue it till their demands are fulfilled.
Tehsildar, Barbil, Khirod Kumar Behera rushed to the spot to control the situation. However, after his intervention in the matter, the strike was deferred to August 6 and it was agreed that till that time, the company will settle the dispute with the affected people.