Activists are seeking the governor’s intervention to release people arrested in Odisha’s bauxite region

Image for illustration purposes only. | Photo credit: File

Human rights activists have approached Odisha Governor Braj Mohan Ram seeking his intervention in arresting people opposing bauxite mining in Kalahandi and Rayagada districts.

“Since many Dalits and tribal people are against the Siimal bauxite mining in Kalahandi and Rayagada districts, the police in these two districts are resorting to indiscriminate arrests,” said Prafulla Samantara, who sent a petition to the governor on Monday (October 19, 2026).

“When an industrial or mining project comes to an area, it is natural for affected local people to question its viability and express their concerns about the loss of livelihood and the socio-economic and ecological impact on life in their community. People have the right to protest peacefully. However, people are being arrested on false and fabricated criminal charges as the administration tries to suppress voices of protest,” he said.

According to Ranjana Padhi, two activists, Randall Sequeira and Laxman Naik, associated with opposition to Vedanta Group’s proposed Sijimali bauxite mining project, were picked up from Bhabanipatna in Kalahandi district on October 16. Ms. Padhi claimed that family members and lawyers were not allowed access to the arrested activists.

Mr. Samantara said it was unfortunate that tribal leader Lada Sikaka of Niyamgiri was facing several charges without bail in old cases in which his name did not figure in the record sheets.

“Though the Gram Sabhas have rejected the mining proposal in the Niyamgiri range and there has been no agitation by the tribals, they are being unnecessarily targeted,” he pointed out.

Mr. Samantara urged the Urida Governor to review the police action and intervene to secure the release of the activists who were victims of “police repression”.

Published – 20 October 2026 20:10 IST