Tension gripped West Singhbhum district as villagers from 11 Guwa-area hamlets staged a fiery protest at SAIL’s office over the contentious Rajaburu iron ore mine. Carrying traditional arms, nearly 300 tribal leaders and residents converged on Friday, voicing fury over unfulfilled promises despite a century of mining activity.
The procession, spearheaded by Kasiya Pecha’s Mangta Surin, snaked through Guwa market amid resounding slogans demanding land rights and 500 local jobs. ‘No employment, no mining,’ they roared, handing over a detailed memorandum to management. Key asks included prioritizing locals with 75% quota, ensuring 40% women hires, and strict PESA compliance via gram sabha approvals.
Accusing SAIL of ignoring regional development, protesters pointed to persistent poverty, lack of schools, and inadequate medical facilities despite massive ore extractions since 1919. They demanded recruitment transparency, open merit lists, and investigations into recruitment scams. With a one-week ultimatum, threats of highway blockades loom large.
As Jharkhand’s tribal communities intensify calls for equitable resource benefits, this standoff highlights the clash between industrial expansion and indigenous rights. Authorities are monitoring the situation closely.