Korba: The management of BALCO is facing heavy criticism for disrupting the peace of residents in Shanti Nagar, Balco Nagar. The Shanti Nagar Rehabilitation Committee, Titiksha, lodged a complaint with the District Magistrate, exposing the complete picture of BALCO’s violations. Given the gravity of the complaint, then-District Magistrate Sanjeev Jha ordered an investigation led by then-Additional Collector Pradeep Sahu. The team included the SDM, Tehsildar, Regional Environmental Officer, Assistant Labor Commissioner, Deputy Director of Industrial Health and Safety, and the Chief Medical and Health Officer.
The investigation revealed clear evidence of labor exploitation, environmental damage, illegal encroachments, non-compliance with safety standards, and health issues. However, despite the damning report, BALCO has managed to stall any action for the past 10 months, leveraging its high-level connections. This inaction not only emboldens BALCO but also shatters the hopes of the exploited residents and workers of Balco Nagar.
Residents of Shanti Nagar again presented their grievances to the current District Magistrate, leading to the formation of another investigative team by the revenue department. This investigation also confirmed the complaints, but still, no action has been taken. It raises the question of what invisible force allows BALCO to continue disregarding judicial orders. It appears that the greed of some officials within the system allows BALCO to adopt a dictatorial attitude. However, the indomitable spirit of the residents of Shanti Nagar prevents them from giving up.
