Tribals led by LSM forcibly acquire land in Ganjam

BRAHMAPUR: Unlike the tribals’ forcibly land acquisition method followed in Narayanpatna and Bandhugaon area of Koraput district, the tribal people of Ganjam district led by Lok Sangram Manch (LSM), an outfit working for the tribal rights, on Friday acquired around 60 acres of land by putting red flags on the land to claim their rights on their ancestors land.

More than hundred of tribal men and women from Tukabali area of Genja Panchayat under Sorada block in Ganjam district have put the red flags on their ancestors land to reclaim the land rights. The tribals led by the LSM came in a large procession with traditional weapons and red flags in their hands and forcibly plough the targeted land.

According to the LSM members, the tribals who were tenants of the lands became the owners. “We forcibly acquired the land which was planned to be sold by the owner of the land,” said a tribal woman.

On the other hand, Revenue Minister Surjya Narayan Patro said he has already directed the local tehsildar to inquiry about the claim of the tribals and to submit a detailed report on the matter.   

It may be noted that on July 25 last year, the supporters of the Lok Sangram Manch had encroached 5 acres of land proposed for the establishment of a High School gifted by Biswanath temple administration of the village. Similar encroachments were occurred near Haripur, Gojiakhamana village during last year.