Jamshedpur: The seven-day-long gate blockade and work stoppage at UCIL’s Narwapahar mines ended on Monday after a successful tripartite meeting involving the district administration, UCIL management, and representatives of displaced families. Following the breakthrough, mining operations resumed from the B shift, restoring normal production.
The crucial meeting was held at the office of the Dhalbhum Sub-Divisional Officer in the presence of Potka MLA Sanjib Sardar. Officials said a consensus was reached on key demands related to employment and rehabilitation of displaced persons affected by mining activities.
During the talks, the management of Uranium Corporation of India Limited (UCIL) agreed to immediately appoint eight candidates under death-related employment cases. In addition, it was decided that applications from dependents of displaced families—whose members have retired or opted for voluntary retirement schemes (VRS)—will be accepted until January 20, 2026. These applications will be forwarded to the UCIL Board for approval, after which employment is expected to be provided to around 120 displaced persons.
The decisions were confirmed by Budhrai Kisku, President of the Displaced Committee, who said the assurances have brought relief to families that had been protesting for the implementation of long-pending commitments.
Protest Linked to 2014 and 2023 Agreements
Kisku stated that the agitation was rooted in tripartite agreements signed in 2014 and 2023 between UCIL management and displaced families. These agreements had assured employment in death cases, generational employment, and the appointment of eight displaced persons every year.
Demanding implementation of these assurances, displaced families began their agitation on January 12 by blocking the Narwapahar Mines gate, bringing all mining operations—except essential services—to a standstill.
A proposed tripartite meeting on Sunday, initiated by the Potka Circle Officer, had to be cancelled due to her absence. Later, Circle Officer Nikita Bala informed all stakeholders that a fresh meeting would be held at the SDO office on Monday, paving the way for the resolution.
MLA Assures Monitoring of Implementation
Addressing the meeting, MLA Sanjib Sardar asserted that there would be no compromise on the rights and dignity of displaced families. He directed UCIL management to implement all agreed decisions within the stipulated timeframe and assured that he would personally monitor the process if necessary.
Emphasising inclusive development, the MLA said rehabilitation and employment of displaced persons remain a top priority for the government and elected representatives. He warned that any injustice to the people of Potka would not be tolerated.
With the blockade lifted and assurances in place, the resumption of operations at Narwapahar mines is expected to stabilise production while easing tensions between the management and displaced families, officials said.
