Janjgir-Champa — The long-standing frustration of
land-displaced locals associated with the Madwa Atal Bihari Vajpayee Thermal
Power Plant erupted today into a major protest. Despite years of phased
demonstrations and indefinite strikes demanding employment, no concrete
resolution has emerged from either the administration or the government. As a
result, the affected villagers resorted to a road blockade near Darra Bhatha on
the Janjgir-Champa main highway.
The blockade brought traffic across the region to a complete
halt, causing widespread disruption and inconvenience to the general public.
The core demand of the protestors is employment within the thermal power plant
for those whose lands were acquired during its construction. They allege that
authorities had promised jobs in exchange for their land, a promise they claim
remains unfulfilled.
Local administrative officials, including the SDM,
Tehsildar, and police personnel, arrived at the site and are attempting to
mediate with the protesters. However, the agitators remain firm, declaring that
the protest will continue—and may intensify—until their demand for jobs is met.
In view of the growing tension, regional MLA Vyas Kashyap
also reached the site and is engaged in discussions with officials in an
attempt to resolve the situation peacefully.
Union's Warning:
“The protest will not stop until the displaced locals are provided employment
at the plant,” a union spokesperson declared. “Both the government and plant
management must honor the promises made during land acquisition.”
This movement highlights the deepening frustration among
local residents over unfulfilled assurances and prolonged neglect. The issue
has now become a serious challenge for both the administration and the
government.