Kendrapada, Sept. 30 -- The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has sought an Action Taken Report (ATR) from the Mayurbhanj District Magistrate within two weeks on allegations of illegal stone quarrying and blasting in the foothills of Similipal National Park.
In an order issued on Monday, the NHRC directed the District Magistrate to conduct an inquiry into the allegations concerning areas near Saratchandrapur and Bankasahi villages under Kendua panchayat of Shamakhunta tehsil and submit the report within two weeks.
The complaint, filed by rights activist Akhand, alleged that illegal stone quarrying was being carried out in the area, particularly during night hours, using drilling machines and explosives.
According to the complaint, ...