Local leaders urge MP Malvika Devi for immediate unlocking of bauxite mining in Kalahandi

THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU

KALAHANDI, MAY 23, 2025

A strong appeal has been made by local leaders and Panchayati Raj Institution (PRI) members from the Lanjigarh region, who gathered under the banner of Lanjigarh Anchalika Vikas Parishad (LAVP) to press for the urgent convening of a Gram Sabha aimed at unlocking bauxite mining in Kalahandi.

The delegation, representing a broad spectrum of grassroots stakeholders including youth leaders, self-help groups, and local families, met with Kalahandi Member of Parliament, Malvika Devi, to submit a formal memorandum calling for swift action. Their demand centers on the immediate allocation of bauxite mines, which they argue is essential to securing a stable and permanent source of raw materials crucial for the economic advancement of the region.

Led by LAVP President Sridhar Pesnia, the group emphasized the plight of the Lanjigarh alumina refinery — the district’s first mega-industry — which has been hindered by the absence of a captive bauxite mine for over two decades. This lack of consistent raw material supply has prevented the refinery from operating at full capacity, thereby impacting local employment, incomes, and the wider network of ancillary businesses dependent on its sustained functioning. The memorandum also drew attention to what the delegation described as a growing disparity in government support, particularly when compared to similar industrial setups in the neighboring Rayagada and Koraput districts.

The appeal was backed by influential local figures including Kamala Patra, Block Chairman of Lanjigarh, Sanjeeb Nayak, Vice Chairman, Parikhita Naik, Zilla Parishad Member, and other key community representatives such as MLA representative Pradeep Ghadei and Sarpanch Chancher Majhi. Youth leaders like Murali Naik and Dilip Harijan, along with members of youth clubs and self-help groups, added their voices to the call for immediate action.

Responding to the delegation, MP Malvika Devi expressed her strong commitment to the cause. She acknowledged the clear and consistent demand from the people of Lanjigarh for an immediate Gram Sabha to facilitate the opening of local bauxite reserves. “The people of Lanjigarh see this as a vital step to unlock new opportunities not only for their region but also for the surrounding areas. As their elected representative, I will raise this matter with the highest authorities to ensure it receives the attention it deserves,” she assured.

Adding weight to the demand, former MP Arka Keshari Deo voiced his support for the initiative, stressing that the Lanjigarh refinery was originally conceived as a pivotal driver of Kalahandi’s development. “For the refinery to thrive, a steady supply of raw materials is indispensable. The people’s demand is legitimate and urgent, and we are committed to taking this matter to both State and Central governments to secure the industrial growth that Kalahandi merits,” he said.

The Lanjigarh Anchalika Vikas Parishad reaffirmed its dedication to peaceful and constructive advocacy, underscoring that sustainable industrial development rooted in community consent and environmentally responsible mining practices holds the key to the region’s long-term prosperity. The delegation’s concerted efforts reflect a determined vision for Kalahandi’s future — one where economic growth and community welfare go hand in hand.