RAYAGADA: The Dongria Kondhs of Sakata village under Munikhol panchayat of Muniguda block in the district echo the sentiments of their fellowmen in Parshalli panchayat of Kalyansinghpur block.
At a meeting in the village on Thursday, they have declared their candidates for the panchayat election.
At least 50 village heads of Niyamgiri hills of Munikhol, Sibapadar and Kalahandi district participated in the meeting. Dadhi Pusika of Gartha village, Ladda Sikaka of Lakhapadar, Subash Kulesika of Nuagaon, Lingaraj Azad and other members were also present.
Dadhi Pusika of Niyamgiri Surakhya Samiti (NSS) said a five- member committee will be formed to monitor the development works after the panchayat election.
The Dongria Kondhs alleged that the political parties have failed to fulfil the promises for development of primitive tribes. “Having learnt a lesson, we have decided to contest elections and look after our own issues.”
Prior to this, Dongrias of Parshalli panchayat in Kalyansinghpur block of the district had nominated their members to contest the elections under the banner of CPI(ML). Their leaders had asked other parties to stay away from contesting in the area.
The CPI(ML) leaders said if any other party interferes in the election, they will have to face the consequences. It was decided to ex-communicate villagers, who deviate from the promulgated rules.