Massive protests broke out on Monday outside the ONGC Assam Asset office in Nazira. The agitation was led by Bir Lachit Sena chief Shrinkhal Chaliha, who demanded immediate action over the ongoing gas leak at Bhatiapar Barichuk in Sivasagar district.
The protesters blamed SK Petro, a private operator engaged by ONGC, for negligence leading to the leak. Perhaps, they demanded the arrest of the company’s owner and urged the government to act without delay.
ONGC Under Fire as Protests Mount
The protestors shouted slogans against ONGC and SK Petro. Chaliha, addressing the crowd, said, “This is not just environmental damage — it is criminal negligence. Also, lives are at risk. We want SK Petro’s owner arrested immediately.”
Local residents, many of whom have been experiencing breathing difficulties and headaches since the leak began, joined the protest. They claimed the gas has been leaking for over a week with little action from the authorities.
Environmental and Health Concerns Grow
Villagers from Bhatiapar and nearby areas reported a strong smell of gas in the air. Several families have temporarily left their homes. Environmental activists also raised concerns about long-term groundwater and soil contamination.
According to Assam State Pollution Control Board, samples have been collected from the affected zone. Preliminary findings show increased levels of hydrocarbons in the air. Final reports are awaited.
What ONGC and Authorities Say
In a statement, ONGC officials confirmed that the gas leak occurred from a well operated by SK Petro, a contractor. They added that international experts have been contacted to control the situation.
Sivasagar District Administration has asked locals to avoid open flames near the affected zone. Medical camps have been set up in nearby schools. Moreover, residents showing symptoms have been advised to report for check-ups.
District Commissioner Megha Nidhi Dahal said, “We are monitoring the situation closely. Safety measures are being enforced. A full inquiry will follow.”
Political Reactions and Demands
Political leaders from opposition parties slammed the BJP-led Assam government for inaction. Assam Pradesh Congress spokesperson Ramen Chandra Bora said, “This is another Baghjan in the making. We demand accountability.”
Meanwhile, Assam Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma has sought a detailed report from the Energy Department. He assured strict action if negligence is proven.
Bir Lachit Sena’s Ultimatum
Shrinkhal Chaliha warned that protests would intensify if the state fails to take action. “We will launch statewide agitations and block ONGC operations if justice is delayed. The government must choose people over profit,” he said.
The group has planned another protest rally in Dibrugarh next week. Chaliha also submitted a memorandum to the Deputy Commissioner demanding an FIR against SK Petro and full compensation for affected families.
Call for Stringent Industrial Safety
This incident has sparked fresh discussions around safety norms and contractor accountability in Assam’s energy sector. Lastly, experts have urged for stricter compliance and third-party audits of private operators managing oil and gas assets.
The gas leak in Sivasagar has exposed gaps in emergency response and contractor oversight. With pressure mounting from activists and locals, the spotlight is now firmly on ONGC and the Assam government to act swiftly.
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