TOI reported that residents of about six gram panchayats in Chhendipada block have decided to boycott the coming panchayat election in protest against the district administration's decision to acquire land for two coal mines in the area.

The Bhushan Steel Limited and the Adani group have decided to set up two mines at Chhendipada, about 60 km from here.

In a renewed effort, villagers of about fifteen villages on Saturday assembled at Sapuinali and announced their decision to boycott the Panchayat poll. They informed the district administration of their decision through a letter.

Padma Charana Majhi a resident of Sapuinali area said that "We have taken an oath to boycott the election because we have no faith in the panchayat represantaives, as they would support with the company after the election."

Angul sub collector Sudarsana Parida said that "The companies have offered good compensation and rehabilitation. The administration is also trying to initiate a dialogue with the companies and the people to solve their problem immediately. People should participate in the Panchayat poll."

(Sourced from TOI)