Prohibitory orders to prevent possible clash

The Maoist backed Chasi Muliya Adivasi Sangh (CMAS), which is spearheading the tribals fight for their land rights in the area, had sought permission from the administration to hold a meeting at Podapadar today.

Conversely, non-tribals who have been driven out by CMAS activists from their respective villages since 2009 were opposing to the Sangh's proposed meeting.

"There is report that non-tribals are opposing Sangh's meeting and there could be a clash if it is organised. There is also information about movement of Maoists in the area who could resort to violence taking advantage of huge gathering. Therefore, as a precautionary measure, prohibitory orders were issued in and around Podapadar," said Koraput SP Awinash Kumar.

Sub-collector (Koraput) Rasmita Panda said proper announcement was made in the area prior to clamping the prohibitory orders which would be in force for two days.

"Apart from Podapadar, the prohibitory orders have been issued at Bhaliaput, Basnaput, Upper Renga and Balipeta of Narayanpatna block," she said.

Tension prevails in Narayanpatna since 2009 after the CMAS intensified their land grabbing spree and forcibly occupied over 3,000 acres of land from non-tribals claiming it to be their own to which the non-tribals had taken by deceit in Narayanpatna.

During their land grabbing spree the Sangh had attacked the non-tribals and had driven out over 100 non-tribal families from their respective villages.

Fearing to get attacked from the tribals, scores of non-tribals continues to stay at temporary camps provided by the administration at Koraput town and other others.

Meanwhile, BSF jawans recovered seven landmines and explosives materials during a combing operation from Mankindi forest in Narayanpatna yesterday.