Villagers Block Vedanta Ore Trucks in Bicholim Over Unmet Demands
Angry villagers from Sarmanas-Piligao in Bicholim took direct action on Tuesday. They blocked several vehicles transporting ore for Vedanta from its mining site. The villagers expressed deep frustration over their long-pending demands remaining unaddressed.
Core Grievances of the Community
The protesters highlighted specific issues. They complained that mining sludge has choked their farmlands. Their repeated requests to desilt these farms have been ignored. The community also demands the provision of a dedicated ambulance for the village. Villagers stated these and other appeals have consistently fallen on deaf ears.
Upon receiving information that Vedanta planned to resume mining operations, locals gathered. Their goal was to physically block the trucks carrying the ore. This protest aimed to force the company to finally listen.
Official Response and Stalemate
Local authorities rushed to the scene after learning of the blockade. Bicholim deputy collector Shubham Naik, mamlatdar Shailendra Desai, sub-divisional police officer Shridevi B V, and police inspector Vijay Rane Sardesai all arrived. They requested the assembled villagers to disperse. However, the protesters stood firm and refused to move.
Vedanta officials were also present at the site. They briefed the deputy collector about measures taken to resolve the ongoing dispute. Advocate Ajay Prabhugaonkar provided context. He explained that villagers have blocked vehicles multiple times over recent months. This tactic is their way of compelling the mining giant to meet their demands.
Prabhugaonkar noted that several rounds of discussions have occurred over the past two years. These talks involved villagers, government officials, and Vedanta representatives. Despite these meetings, a final resolution remains elusive.
Vedanta's Statement and Future Steps
Vedanta later issued a statement to reporters. The company claimed that measures discussed in a previous meeting with community members and civil administration are now being implemented. The statement addressed farmer compensation issues specifically. Vedanta expressed hope that all pending supporting documents needed for this compensation would be received soon.
The mining company reaffirmed its commitment. It stated operations are conducted in strict adherence to all statutory and regulatory procedures. The standoff in Sarmanas-Piligao continues, highlighting the tension between industrial activity and local community welfare.
