Congress hijacks tribal unrest in Kalinga Nagar

‘‘All of a sudden, local Congress leaders have become self-proclaimed champions of tribals’ causes. Where were they when many tribals were displaced after being given compensation? Even before the January 2 incident, they held meetings with members of People’s Forum Against Displacement. Now they have taken over the Forum and are asking the tribals to continue their movement,’’ a senior police officer told The Indian Express. Without naming anyone, District Magistrate Dr Aravindo Padhin said leaders of ‘‘a political party’’ are instigating the tribal leaders. ‘‘The tribals have become victims of politics. After the death of 12 people, they have become agitated and political parties are just adding fuel to the fire. The setting up of industries will augur well for the local people here but the politicians are more concerned about their own petty interest,’’ he said.

When contacted, Sarat Raut said: ‘‘How can the government displace these people for the prosperity of industrialists? We won’t let it happen.’’

Meanwhile, Sonia Gandhi—accompanied by Home Minister Shivraj Patil and other prominent Congress leaders of the state including Raut—visited the spot at Kalinga Nagar where the bodies were cremated.

After offering floral tribute, Sonia Gandhi spoke to their family members and extended her condolences. ‘‘As the president of Congress, I have come here to share the grief of the bereaved families. Twelve people were brutally killed and we are going to see that their families get justice. Everybody knows how Congress party has been affectionate towards the tribals,’’ she said.

Patil announced that Rs 5 lakh will be given by the Centre to each family. ‘‘Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh has already approved it,’’ he said.

‘‘We thought she will announce that we will not be displaced and that she will order inquiry into the police firing. Only compensation would not do. We had expected more but she disappointed us,’’ said 58-year old Sini Soy who lost her eldest son. ‘‘How could she compensate loss of the only earning member of my family?’’