Parbatjhora, June 16, 2025:
The protests against the proposed thermal power plant in Parbatjhora entered its fifth consecutive day today, as hundreds of local farmers, tribal activists, student leaders, and civil society groups continued their sit-in demonstration near the project site in Bashbari.
Led by several regional organisations and grassroots movements, the demonstrators expressed serious concerns over the manner in which land was earmarked for the project, alleging a lack of public consultation and transparency. The protestors fear that the industrial project might result in displacement of indigenous communities, destruction of natural resources, and long-term ecological consequences.
“Development must not come at the cost of uprooting our people. We demand a detailed environmental impact study, made public, and a written assurance that no village land will be acquired,” said one of the protest leaders at the site.
Carrying placards and shouting slogans, the protesters have vowed to continue their peaceful resistance and warned that the movement may intensify into a region-wide agitation if their demands are ignored. Several student unions and women’s groups have also joined the protest, calling for environmental accountability and protection of tribal land rights.
In the backdrop of growing tension, the BTC administration has reiterated that the project will only use government land and that no private or village land is being considered. BTR Chief Pramod Boro has extended an open invitation to all stakeholders for further dialogue and clarification, stating that the administration remains committed to protecting the interests of the indigenous population.