A Forest Rights Act (FRA) Gram Sabha organized in Banharadi panchayat of Chandwa block of Latehar district. The villagers objecting to the proposed coal mining project, cited survey errors, land classification disputes and concerns over environmental and social impact. The meeting was convened to obtain statutory consent for leasing non-raiyati (GM) land and forest use diversion under the FRA, 2006.
Also Read: Banahardi Residents Warned of Intensifying Stir if Land Issues Not Resolved
Land Disputes and Survey Errors Sparked Opposition
The Gram Sabha, chaired by Gram Pradhan Indradev Oraon, witnessed several residents alleging that their raiyati (private) land had been wrongly recorded as Government or Forest land in the recent survey. Villagers demanded rectification of land records, issuance of pending settlement receipts, and recognition of individual and community forest rights before any clearance for the coal block. Officials, including Circle Officer Sumit Kumar Jha and revenue staff, recorded the grievances and assured corrective measures.
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No Consent Until Issues Resolved, Say Villagers
Residents made it clear that they would not grant consent for land acquisition or mining activities until all discrepancies were addressed. They also expressed concerns over likely displacement, loss of livelihood and ecological impact once the mine becomes operational. Circle Inspector Mahesh Singh termed the meeting “constructive” and confirmed that villagers have been asked to submit written objections at the block office. The next Gram Sabha has been scheduled for 10th November 2025 to decide further action.
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