Paikmal/ Bargarh:In a historic gathering at the Gandhi Smriti Peetha near Nrusinghanath, the 40th Annual Meeting of the Gandhamardhan Protection Movement titled “Balco Hatao – Gandhamardhan Bachao” was held with great fervor. The event saw the participation of Bargarh MP Pradeep Purohit and several activists who took a solemn oath to prevent any mining activity in the sacred hills of Gandhamardhan.
The event marked a significant day in the political history of Bargarh. Despite the BJP being in power at both the state and central levels, MP Pradeep Purohit joined hands with the activists to take this pledge, setting a distinct political precedent.
The day began with activists from various regions like Paikamal, Jharbandh, Padmapur, Khaprakhol, Gaisilet, and neighboring Chhattisgarh gathering at the Bhagavat Tattva Ashram. Accompanied by traditional music and a grand procession, they reached the Gandhi Samadhi Peetha at the Nrusinghanath temple. Tributes were paid to Lord Nrusingha and Mahatma Gandhi by MP Purohit and senior activists through prayers and floral offerings.
The event was chaired by senior women leaders of the Gandhamardhan Protection Youth Council, including Jambobati Bijara, Pratima Baghar, and Ganeshi Tandi, with veteran activist Dhiren Mohanty as the program conductor. Activists observed a two-minute silence in memory of the movement’s pioneers, Niranjan Bidrohi and Nandalal Trivedi of Paikamal, who passed away recently.
In the backdrop of ongoing concerns over mining activities in the Gandhamardhan hills, thousands of people reaffirmed their commitment to its protection. MP Purohit declared, Untill my last Drop of Blood, Mining will not be allowed ”
Posthumous honors, termed “Gandhamardhan Gaurav Samman,” were awarded to the families of departed activists. Villages involved in the movement were recognized with certificates of appreciation and gifts.
A resolution was passed urging political parties like the Congress and Biju Janata Dal to seek forgiveness for their historical attempts to exploit Gandhamardhan. MP Purohit, a former activist leader, reiterated his stand against any mining activities in the region.
The Gandhamardhan hills, spanning 97 kilometers, are a treasure trove of biodiversity, medicinal plants, and water resources, including two prominent rivers. They are also home to significant pilgrimage sites like Nrusinghanath and Harishankar temples. Chinese traveler Hiuen Tsang had described the area as “Parimal,” highlighting its ancient Buddhist heritage. Over 50,000 tribal families depend on the hills for their livelihood.
MP Purohit has been advocating for Gandhamardhan to be declared a National Asset in the Lok Sabha under Rule 377. He emphasized its ecological and cultural significance, urging the central government to protect it from exploitation. Additionally, he demanded national tourism status for Nrusinghanath and Harishankar.
The movement, which began in 1983 against mining leases granted by the then Congress government, continues to inspire local communities. Their united front remains steadfast in protecting the Gandhamardhan hills for future generations.
Report: Aswini Kumar Darjee
Input/Photo: Bijaya Kumar Sahu
