Jeypore, 29th Sept 2025: The residents of Bairagipada village have lodged a complaint with the Sub-Collector of Jaypur, alleging illegal encroachment of grazing and forest land by certain individuals.
According to the villagers of Bamunia Guda under the Shasahandi Revenue Circle in Borigumma Tehsil, Koraput district, around 100 acres of grazing and forest land in Bairagipada mouza is being illegally occupied. The villagers submitted a written complaint to the Sub-Collector, stating that this land has traditionally been used by them for grazing their cattle and sustaining their livelihood. They also claimed that they have been protecting the forest land for many years.
However, some influential individuals from Bairagipada village—namely:
1. Dasharath Santa
2. Suri Santa
3. Manu Santa
4. Tula Santa
5. Raju Santa
6. Nuka Santa
7. Pukura Musuri Santa
8. Bhagana Santa
9. Hukana Santa
10. Lukunath Majhi
—have allegedly uprooted lemon, mango, neem, and peepal trees planted by the Panchayat and have taken over around 10 acres of the land for maize cultivation, as per the villagers’ complaint.
As a result, the villagers are now unable to graze their cattle, causing them hardship. They questioned how such encroachment is taking place without any official permission, and have urged the authorities to investigate the matter promptly and take strict action.
The villagers also reported that tensions are escalating in the area due to the situation. They stated that although this issue had previously been brought to the attention of the Tahasildar of Borigumma, no investigation or action has been taken so far.
In response, the villagers have now gathered and approached the Sub-Collector of Jaypur, requesting an immediate and proper inquiry, and demanding that the illegally occupied grazing and forest land be freed from encroachment and justice be delivered.