Para Staff Allege Exploitation and Caste Discrimination in Kashipur Forest Range
Rayagada, Serious allegations of exploitation, caste-based discrimination, and administrative misconduct have surfaced from the Kashipur Forest Range under the Rayagada Forest Division. A group of Para Staff, who have been serving in various forestry operations for over 15 years, have submitted a written complaint to the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), seeking urgent intervention and justice.
According to the complaint, ever since Mr. Antarjyami Sahu took charge as the Range Officer of Kashipur, the working environment for the Para Staff has deteriorated significantly. The staff allege they are being subjected to verbal abuse, targeted removal efforts, and are being forced to perform tasks beyond their designated roles without proper appointment or payment.
“We are being treated with anger and hostility. He often talks about replacing us with new people despite our long years of service,” the complaint states.
The Para Staff further claim they are being made to work as watchers, construction laborers, and masons in various forest projects and office construction work, despite not being officially appointed to such roles. Their duties reportedly include forest patrols, asset mapping, nursery maintenance, plantation activities, and more.
One of the most serious allegations involves caste-based discrimination by Forester Mr. Suresh Mishra, who allegedly segregates work assignments based on caste. This has led to growing resentment and division among the workforce.
Additionally, the staff highlighted the issue of non-payment or underpayment of wages to villagers employed under forest-related schemes. When Para Staff are sent to these villages, they face public anger, further endangering their safety. Despite reporting such incidents, they allege no action has been taken, and instead, they are being victimized.
“We have dedicated over 15 years of our lives to the Forest Department. Our families depend on this job. Now, we are being subjected to humiliation, exploitation, and harassment,” the letter stated.
In response to the complaint, the Divisional Forest Officer of Rayagada has assured the complainants that a proper investigation will be conducted and necessary action will be taken. The DFO also affirmed that justice will be ensured, and no employee should face discrimination or unlawful treatment while serving in the department.
The assurance from the DFO has brought a ray of hope to the Para Staff, who now await concrete steps and accountability from the authorities.
Reported by Gouri Shankar Pattnaik
