BJD Submits Memorandum to Odisha Human Rights Commission Seeking Justice for Ettua Ekka and Protection of Tribal Rights
Bhubaneswar, 23/04/2025: The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) today met with the Chairman of the Odisha Human Rights Commission (OHRC) and submitted a memorandum demanding urgent action and intervention in connection with the tragic and deeply concerning death of Mr. Ettua Ekka, a tribal protester from Barkani village, Sundargarh district.
The BJD delegation highlighted the serious human rights violations surrounding the incident that occurred on April 20, 2025, when Mr. Ekka, a 35-year-old tribal youth, was crushed to death by an excavator during a peaceful protest against the expansion of a railway line for the Rourkela Steel Plant (RSP). The protest was aimed at preventing the encroachment of traditional tribal land — a cause rooted in the defense of constitutional and ancestral rights.
The memorandum submitted to the OHRC outlines the following key demands:
- A suo motu inquiry by the Commission into the incident and the surrounding circumstances;
- An independent investigation into the role of local administration, police personnel, and RSP officials present at the scene;
- Immediate registration of FIRs against those responsible for the death of Mr. Ekka;
- Protection of tribal land rights and review of previous acquisitions in the region;
- Withdrawal of all FIRs filed against innocent tribal protesters;
- Establishment of a structured dialogue mechanism between the administration and tribal communities to address land and livelihood concerns.
The BJD delegation reiterated that the issue is not just a matter of governance, but one of dignity, justice, and constitutional protection for tribal citizens. The party called upon the OHRC to ensure swift and transparent action so that justice is not denied to the family of Mr. Ekka and his community.
The delegation was led by Senior BJD Leader, and comprised Dr. Priyabrata Majhi, Dr. Lenin Mohanty (Media Coordinator), Mr. Tumbanath Panda, Smt. Ranjita Sahoo, Ms. Ipsita Sahoo, Mr.Biswapratap Sahoo, and Mr.ArupSrichandan.
The Biju Janata Dal reaffirms its unwavering commitment to protect the rights, lives, and dignity of tribal communities across Odisha and will continue to oppose any form of injustice or displacement of indigenous people.
