Archive · 20 Sep 2026
Odisha Protesters Oppose Mining and Alleged Police Action
Hundreds of people held a protest in Odisha on Saturday.
They were worried about mining in areas where tribal communities live.
They also objected to what they described as police action against tribal leaders.
The protest was organised by a group called Sachetana Nagarik Manch.
People from civil society, tribal groups and political parties joined it.
The protesters stayed even when heavy rain fell.
Former minister Bhajamana Behera said mines should not simply be handed to large companies.
Activist Lenin Kumar questioned why tribal leader Lada Sikaka was detained on September 10.
The article reports the protesters’ claims and does not include a response from the state government or police.
Hundreds gathered near Master Canteen Square on Saturday to protest mining in tribal areas and alleged police action.
The demonstration was organised by Sachetana Nagarik Manch and included civil society members, tribal groups, political parties, former IAS officers and intellectuals.
Protesters continued despite heavy afternoon rain in the city.
They alleged that tribal leaders opposing mining and police action were being jailed.
Activists questioned the September 10 detention of indigenous leader Lada Sikaka and criticised alleged support for Vedanta and Adani Group.
- Who
- Civil society members, tribal groups, political parties, former IAS officers, intellectuals and activists, including Bhajamana Behera and Lenin Kumar.
- What
- A protest against mining in tribal areas and alleged police action and arrests of tribal leaders.
- When
- The demonstration took place on Saturday; Lada Sikaka was reportedly picked up on September 10.
- Where
- Near Master Canteen Square in Odisha.
- Why
- Protesters sought opposition to mining in tribal areas and alleged jailing or detention of leaders who opposed mining.
- Organiser
- Sachetana Nagarik Manch
- Location
- Near Master Canteen Square, Odisha
- Participants
- Civil society members, tribal groups, political parties, former IAS officers and intellectuals
- Main concern
- Indiscriminate mining in tribal areas
- Police-related allegation
- Protesters alleged that tribal leaders opposing mining and police action were being jailed
- Named companies
- Vedanta and Adani Group
- Named tribal leader
- Lada Sikaka, reportedly picked up by police on September 10