Dongria Kondhs Threaten to Boycott Elections

Dongria Kondhs residing in Niyamgiri hills of Muniguda, Bissamkatak and Kalyansinghpur blocks in Rayagada district have decided to boycott the ensuing General Election protesting the State Government’s complacent attitude towards their development.

Dongria Kondhs on Sunday organised a meeting at Monda village under Munikhol panchayat where they alleged that the State Government has over the years initiated no development work in their areas.

Munikhol, Kurli, Parsali and Shibapadar panchayats comprise more than 100 villages, inhabited by Dongria Kondhs, and are situated close to Niyamgiri hills.

“These villages have no proper roads, schools and healthcare facilities. In fact, there has been no development even after 66 years of Independence,” said Dadhi Sikaka, who is the president of Niyamgiri Surakhya Samiti.

The tribals also demanded Vedanta to stop industry projects in the area.

They said if they do not receive written assurance from the State Government on taking concrete steps to address their problems before April 5, they will boycott the polls. Sarpanch of Kurli panchayat Dirnju Kadraka was also present.