Bhubaneswar, Odisha — In a significant development, the People’s Vigilance Committee on Human Rights (PVCHR) has made a heartfelt appeal to the newly appointed Chief Minister of Odisha, Shri Mohan Charan Majhi, to urgently address the long-standing issue of land settlement for displaced families near the Hirakud Dam. This call for action highlights the ongoing challenges faced by villagers who have been awaiting justice and resolution for years.
A Plea for Immediate Intervention
PVCHR, led by its Founder and CEO Lenin Raghuvanshi, has brought to light the distressing situation of cultivators and villagers from Chikhili, Beniapali, and Barangakot in the Ambabhona Tehsil of Bargarh District. These communities are grappling with severe hardships due to the unresolved issue of relinquishment and settlement of land above 632 ft RL on the periphery of the Hirakud Dam Reservoir.
Despite multiple submissions and pleas to various authorities, including the Tahasildar Ambabhona, Collector Bargarh, RDC Sambalpur, and the Principal Secretary to the Government of Odisha, the villagers’ grievances have remained unaddressed. The PVCHR’s appeal underscores the urgency of the matter and the need for immediate intervention to provide relief to the affected families.
The Role of the OHRC and Government Authorities
The Hon’ble Odisha Human Rights Commission (OHRC) had previously issued an order directing the settlement of land for the displaced families. However, compliance with this order has been delayed, exacerbating the plight of the villagers. According to a recent letter from the Office of the Revenue Divisional Commissioner, Northern Division, Odisha, Sambalpur (Letter No- IX-(A) -0812024. ,531/Rev. A, Dated 19.05.2024), there has been a directive to expedite compliance with the OHRC’s order without further delay.
This directive, referenced in multiple communications including those dated 02.05.2024, 29.04.2024, and 08.05.2024, highlights the need for urgent action from the concerned authorities. The PVCHR’s appeal to the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) further emphasizes the gravity of the situation and the necessity for prompt and effective resolution.
A Call for Justice and Human Rights
The PVCHR has highlighted that a similar case (NHRC case no. 1109/18/13/2011/UC) in the Jharsuguda District saw positive developments following the NHRC’s intervention. The Water Resources Department of the Government of Odisha made decisions for the relinquishment and eventual settlement with ROR Pattas in favor of land oustees in Jharsuguda District, setting a precedent for similar cases. This information was received from Dr. Mohanlal Panda.
However, the villagers in Bargarh District have yet to receive the same attention and resolution. The PVCHR’s urgent appeal to the NHRC and the new Chief Minister underscores the unjust suffering of these communities and calls for immediate steps to settle the land above 632 ft RL, providing the rightful compensation and alleviating their distress.
The Road Ahead
As Shri Mohan Charan Majhi takes on the mantle of Chief Minister, there is hope that his administration will prioritize the resolution of this pressing issue. Addressing the grievances of the displaced families near the Hirakud Dam will not only bring justice to these communities but also set a strong precedent for human rights and governance in Odisha.
The PVCHR, alongside other human rights organizations, stands ready to support the new administration in its efforts to ensure the well-being and development of all citizens of Odisha. The timely intervention and resolution of this matter will be a significant step towards achieving social justice and upholding human rights in the state.
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