Congress Slams Odisha Govt Over PESA Delay, Demands Halt on Mining Tenders

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Assembly witnessed sharp criticism from Congress legislators who accused the state government of deliberately stalling the implementation of the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act (PESA).

Lawmakers argued that the delay is depriving tribal communities of land, livelihood, and rights, while enabling unchecked mining and industrial projects.

Congress leader Rama Chandra Kadam alleged that the government’s inaction benefits industrialists at the expense of tribal welfare.

He warned that unrest among tribal communities could escalate if PESA is not enforced soon.

MLA C.S. Raazen Ekka reminded the House that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had promised PESA implementation during the 2024 elections, yet no progress has been made.

Ekka demanded the formation of a House Committee to investigate land acquisition practices and ensure accountability.

Senior Congress MLA Tara Prasad Bahinipati criticised the government for repeated announcements without action.

He urged the Speaker to halt mining tenders until PESA is implemented, stressing that continued neglect of tribal rights could spark widespread discontent.