By Our Correspondent
BHUBANESWAR: The Odisha Human Rights Commission (OHRC) has issued an order to the District Collector of Kendrapara to immediately seal and shut down the Veer Hanuman Rice Mill, which is operating in the middle of a residential area.
This rice mill, operated by Rajendra Kumar Jena and his daughter-in-law Snigdha Priyadarshini Raut, was established without proper authorization in a densely populated locality. It was having a severe impact on local residents, especially elderly Ramachandra Jena and his family. They were suffering for a long time due to dust, smoke, noise, and air pollution caused by the mill’s operation.
Despite several complaints submitted by Ramachandra Jena to the Kendrapara district administration, no effective action was taken. Eventually, citing violation of his human rights, he filed a formal complaint before the Odisha Human Rights Commission.
After reviewing all the documents and police reports, the Hon’ble Commission found merit in the allegations and concluded that the rice mill was indeed causing harm. Consequently, the OHRC has issued orders to both the District Collector and the Superintendent of Police to immediately seal and shut down the Veer Hanuman Rice Mill.
Local residents have welcomed this decision, calling it a bold and appropriate step that will help restore peace and environmental balance in the area.
