Puri, July 8 (UDN): More than four decades after the Konark–Balukhand Wildlife Sanctuary was notified, hundreds of families across 11 villages in Odisha’s Puri district continue to await legal clarity over their ancestral land, with residents urging the government to expedite the resolution of the long-pending dispute.
The issue dates back to 1984, when the sanctuary was declared a protected area under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. While the law envisaged completion of the sanctuary’s boundary demarcation within a stipulated period after inviting public objections, affected residents allege that the process remains incomplete even after 42 years.
Families living in villages stretching from Mohinipur Mouza in Puri to Udaykani Mouza in Astaranga block say they have been unable to exercise full ownership over their Sthitiban (recorded private) land due to the prolonged uncertainty. The restrictions have prevented them from selling, transferring, mortgaging or developing their properties, adversely affecting their livelihoods and financial security.
Residents also claim that the absence of clear land records has complicated access to government services, including caste and income certificates, educational benefits and welfare schemes. They say the unresolved issue has affected three generations of families who continue to live without certainty over their land rights.
Over the years, villagers have submitted several petitions and representations to the authorities and have also approached the Orissa High Court seeking a resolution. Although the court reportedly directed the administration to settle the matter by December 31, 2024, the dispute remains unresolved.
Local residents have appealed to the state government to implement the court’s directions and bring an end to decades of uncertainty. They maintain that the issue concerns not only ownership of land but also their identity, livelihood and future.
Officials, however, indicated that progress has been made in the process. According to the district administration, hearings have been completed and reports have been forwarded to the Forest Department. The matter is expected to be finalised after approval from the Chief Wildlife Warden.
The Konark–Balukhand Wildlife Sanctuary, developed along Odisha’s coastline to protect the region from saline sea winds and conserve biodiversity, is home to several wildlife species, including blackbuck, jackals, foxes and numerous migratory birds. Authorities say efforts are being made to strike a balance between wildlife conservation and the legitimate rights of local communities.
Residents remain hopeful that a final decision will provide long-awaited relief and restore legal recognition of their ancestral land after more than four decades of uncertainty.
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