Siuri Residents Rally Against Deocha Pachami Mining Project

Fast Summary:

• A public convention in Siuri, Birbhum district, West Bengal, opposed the Deocha Pachami coal mining project on September 19, 2025.
• Activists and politicians alleged illegal land acquisition and displacement of Adivasi families without proper compensation.
• The project is expected to impact thousands of Adivasi, Dalit, and minority families reliant on water, forests, and land for their livelihoods.
• Concerns were raised about long-term water scarcity and increased air/water pollution due to mining activities in the region.
• Activists demanded a judicial inquiry into alleged corruption and immediate cessation of work on the project.
• The Deocha-Pachami coal reserves are estimated at 1,200 million tonnes but lie under a basalt layer that is 90-245 meters thick. Experts have cast doubt on practical feasibility for coal extraction.
• Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee previously stated the project would ensure a century-long coal supply and create one lakh jobs. Critics argue it has primarily involved basalt mining with insufficient environmental clearance processes.
• Protests by locals against displacement have been ongoing since its inception. The government offers ₹39 lakhs compensation with one job per family but faces allegations of opacity in implementation.

Indian Opinion Analysis:

The opposition to the Deocha Pachami coal mining project highlights critical issues related to resource management, environmental justice, and livelihood security in India.On one hand, large-scale projects like this promise economic growth thru job creation and energy self-sufficiency. Yet the lack of transparency surrounding land acquisition processes raises legitimate concerns about social equity as vulnerable populations face potential displacement without adequate safeguards.

environmental concerns further complicate this scenario; critics warn of water crises due to extensive mining operations-a pressing issue given India’s recurring droughts. Additionally, doubts regarding technical feasibility suggest potential challenges ahead for both financial returns from investments and also meeting projected energy needs.

Balancing industrial growth with community welfare will remain a key test here-timely judicial review or participatory decision-making frameworks could provide avenues to address grievances while ensuring accountability toward affected stakeholders’ rights.

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