Anti-POSCO Movement

Esteemed Chief Minister,

As a senior citizen concerned with the development of the state, I have been watching with dismay for quite some time, the unfortunate and sad happening surrounding the POSCO issue.I personally feel strongly that mines are our non-renewable ,precious strategic asset and like family silver. No country on earth has become rich by utilising its mineral wealth. I hope you are aware that mine based industries are inefficient employment generators and poor job providers.

My contention is, many of the people who are involved in the anti-POSCO movement are also committed to poverty alleviation agenda of the state. Some of them are respected leaders of Odisha Civil Society and have genuine concerns.Dissent is a part of democracy and respecting this is a sign of healthy and confident leadership.As Chief Minister, you represent all of us and can play the role of a unifier reconciling various points of view through dialogue and discussion. The anti-POSCO activists are not your enemies, they are our own brothers and sisters, the young people involved are our children.as much concerned about the future of the state as you are.

Therefore ,the wisest thing on your part would be to call their representatives for a meaningful dialogue on the issue in a cordial environment.I hope you would consider this suggestion in an open mind.

With regards.

Dr Bhagbanprakash