Story perspectives

Odisha Police Arrest Two Over April Kantamal Clash

By Drooid · Oct 24, 2026, 4:21 AM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

Odisha police arrested Dr. Randall Sequeira and activist Laxman Naik on October 16, 2026.
Police allege they incited tribal residents during the April 2026 Kantamal clash.
They are charged with attempted murder, rioting with deadly weapons, dacoity and Arms Act violations.
CPI(M) Odisha State Committee, Concerned Citizens Committee, Human Rights Forum and Right to Food condemned the arrests and demanded release.

History

Historical Context

In March 2007 the West Bengal government, led by Chief Minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharjee, ordered a 3,000-officer police operation to clear the proposed Salim Group chemical SEZ in Nandigram. The clash left 14 villagers dead and sparked nationwide criticism of the CPI(M) and bolstered the Trinamool Congress, shaping later debates on forced land acquisition.

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Story summary

Odisha police arrested Dr. Randall Sequeira and activist Laxman Naik on October 16, 2026.
Police allege they incited tribal residents during the April 2026 Kantamal clash.
They are charged with attempted murder, rioting with deadly weapons, dacoity and Arms Act violations.
CPI(M) Odisha State Committee, Concerned Citizens Committee, Human Rights Forum and Right to Food condemned the arrests and demanded release.

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