Promoting Odia Culture in Bengal: Delegation Urges Special Consideration for RECA Land Allotment

A high-level delegation of Odisha Parliamentarians, led by Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, met Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw to press for the resolution of a decades-old land issue in Kharagpur.

The delegation submitted a formal memorandum seeking immediate regularisation of approximately 5,915 square metres of railway land in the New Settlement area in favour of the Railway Employee Cultural Association (RECA).

Issue Rooted in Decades of Historical and Emotional Significance

The matter has remained unresolved for over 35 years and carries deep emotional and historical importance for the Odia community in the railway township. The MPs highlighted that as early as March 1999, Odisha representatives had raised the issue with the then Prime Minister.

Notably, Debendra Pradhan, former Union Minister and father of Dharmendra Pradhan, had also written to the government at the time, advocating for the land allotment.

RECA’s Role in Cultural and Social Development

Established in 1989, the Railway Employee Cultural Association has been a vital institution in promoting Odia culture and social welfare in the multilingual township of Kharagpur.

The delegation emphasized that RECA operates key community facilities, including a school, a temple, and social infrastructure that benefit both railway employees and the general public.

Railway Records Support Regularisation

Internal reports from the South Eastern Railway indicate that the land has been under continuous use by the association. The Divisional Railway Manager (Kharagpur) had previously recommended regularisation, strengthening the case presented by the MPs.

‘Foundation of Social Harmony’: Pradhan

Speaking after the meeting, Dharmendra Pradhan described RECA as more than just a religious body, calling it a cornerstone of social harmony and national integration.

He noted that the lack of formal land allotment has hindered development activities, impacting not only railway employees but also the broader community.

Railways Assure Review of the Matter

The delegation urged the Railway Minister to consider the case on a priority basis, citing its long-standing nature and broader social implications.

Ashwini Vaishnaw assured the MPs that the issue would be carefully examined, acknowledging the cultural and social importance of the institution.

Hope for Long-Awaited Resolution

With renewed political attention and historical backing, the delegation expressed optimism that the decades-old issue may finally see resolution, bringing relief to thousands associated with the railway community in Kharagpur.