Relocation of villages and settlements from the core area of Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR) has proved to be a thorn in the flesh of the administration as Maoists are believed to have instigated the villagers against the move.
As many as 146 families living in three villages and two settlements are yet to be relocated from STR’s critical area in view of opposition from the inhabitants. One of the villages, Jamuna, has proved to be a tough case as Maoists have penetrated the village and provoked the locals against relocation.
The matter came up for discussion at a meeting chaired by Forest and Environment Minister Bijoyshree Routray. The meeting was attended by Chief Wildlife Warden JD Sharma. Director, Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe and Regional Chief Conservator of Forests (RCCF) of Baripada apart from local DFOs were also present.
Although the Minister said all attempts are being made for relocation of the villages and settlements, moving the residents of Jamuna has posed a challenge for the STR management and Mayurbhanj district administration.
While some of the inhabitants are ready to shift, the rest are in the clutches of the Red rebels. The Minister asked the park management to try and shift the willing villagers first.
The situation in Bakua village is equally tough for the administration as the villagers have resisted even survey teams from entering their area. Since the village is located on the periphery, it is second on the priority list. The case of Kabatghai is much simpler though. All the villagers have agreed to shift to Arjunvilla, the meeting was told.
Besides the three villages, relocation of two settlements at Upper Barahkamuda and Bahaghar also came up during the discussion.
These settlements are in the inviolate areas of the tiger park.