In Raigarh, Lailunga MLA, Vidyawati Sidar, was taken into custody by police while backing villagers protesting against tree felling in Mudagaon and surrounding forests. The situation stems from a coal mine allocation to an industrialist, with the subsequent cutting down of numerous trees causing local unrest.
For the past month, residents from over a dozen villages have been actively opposing the deforestation. The MLA’s presence at the protest, offering support to the villagers this morning, led to her arrest, which has further fueled local demonstrations.
The deforestation is part of an industrial project in Mudagaon, Tamnar. The area is heavily guarded with a large police presence. Local residents highlight the importance of the area’s dense forests and rich biodiversity, emphasizing their role in environmental stability and the livelihoods of the indigenous communities.