NHRC takes up issue with Odisha

BHUBANESWAR: Expressing concern over increasing complaints of rights violations in industrial hubs and areas undergoing industrialisation, the National Human Rights Commission has taken up the issue with the State Government.The NHRC has sought a report from the Government on the allegations of ‘forcible land acquisition’ even as it has set to formulate guidelines for the industries.It would be a sort of code of conduct for industries to ensure safeguarding of human rights in their areas or sites while going forward with their projects. The Commission’s think-tank, studying the nature of violations and make recommendations on the path to be taken, has already submitted its report.This would be followed up by nationwide consultations, involving all stake-holders, including the industries, for voicing their issues and concerns. The report would then be finalised incorporating the finer points of all sides, NHRC member Satyabrata Pal told mediapersons here on Thursday.Pal said a large number of complaints on human rights violations in industrial areas are being received from Odisha. Of these, forcible land acquisition is a major issue. While the Government has stated that only Government land is being acquired, a detailed report is awaited.The Commission members visited different parts of the State, including Jagatsinghpur district which has witnessed sustained and violent resistance to the proposed steel plant project of South Korean steel major Posco. The team also visited Puri and Cuttack districts.