Jajpur: Tension prevailed at Emami Cement Limited (ECL) at Manatira in Kalinga Nagar industrial area in Jajpur district today after families displaced by the project resorted to a dharna in front of the plant demanding jobs.

People of over 20 families sat on a dharna in front of the main gate of the cement plant alleging that the company has failed fulfil its promise to provide jobs in the plant. During the protest, the activists prevented workers from entering the plant disrupting production at the plant.

“Total 66 acres of land of 42 families were given to the company for this project. Industrial Infrastructure Development Corporation (IDCO) had acquired the land in 1994. At that time, the company had assured the displaced families to provide them jobs. However, the company has not taken any step in this regard yet,” said a protester.

The agitators further warned that they would further intensify their stir in coming days if their demand is not fulfilled by the company at the earliest.