Mr. Saroj Mohanty, an activist with Prakrutik Sampad Surakhya Parishad (PSSP) Kashipur, was released on bail on 8 August 2007. Arrested on 14 July, he was charged with dacoity, trespassing and attempt to murder, although it was alleged that the arrest was related to his opposition to the mining companies since 2004.

The local source expressed their surprise in getting the bail release so quickly, compared to previous cases in 2004-2005 where activists on the same charges had to wait 6 months. They attributed the quick release to pressure within and outside Orissa, thanks to different people’s movements, human rights groups, social activists, writers, poets and individuals.

However, the struggle and repression is expected to continue as the corporate lobby continues to work with the political parties and police, while people in Orissa continue to fight for their land, livelihood and culture.

Hotline Asia issued UA070727(5) in July 2007 to highlight the people’s struggle and the authorities’ human rights violations in Kashipur related to the controversial bauxite mining project, and to urge for the immediate release of Mr. Saroj and other activists and an end to all harassment by the state administration against peaceful resistance of the people.

Source:
PSSP