Bhakta Charan Das

Das led the "SAVE FOREST" movement in a peaceful and non-violent manner, raising awareness about the adverse effects of deforestation, such as ecological imbalances, climate warming, and reduced rainfall, which could threaten agriculture and food security.

As an MLA, Das extensively toured the entire district, including many inaccessible areas that had not been visited by any elected representatives or officials since independence.

Das engaged in a prolonged and dedicated effort, employing various methods to draw attention from the press, media, administration, and the government.

He and his activists organized numerous peaceful protests, bandhs, road blockades, and hunger strikes, which were prominently covered by leading magazines and newspapers nationwide.

In the Odisha Legislative Assembly, Das consistently highlighted the dire conditions faced by millions in his district, bringing significant attention to the issues of Kalahandi.

His efforts ensured that the Kalahandi issue frequently dominated discussions in the Assembly, ultimately drawing national attention to the region's plight.

In 2003, Vedanta signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the government of Odisha for an alumina refinery at Lanjigarh and bauxite mining from Niyamgiri.

Das supported the local community's cause over Vedanta's interests, opposing investment and mining projects in an era when many politicians were favoring such initiatives.

Rahul Gandhi, MP and General Secretary of the AICC, visited Niyamgiri Hills despite security concerns raised by the Special Protection Group (SPG) and local administration.

He engaged with the tribal communities, listened to their accounts of mistreatment by Vedanta, and expressed solidarity with them, describing himself as their "Sipahi" (soldier) in Delhi.