The arrest of Dr Randall Sequeira, a doctor known for his work among tribal communities in Odisha, has sparked concern and protests among healthcare professionals and activists. Sequeira was arrested by Kashipur police on October 16, 2026, along with Laxman Naik, a leader of the anti-mining organisation Maa Mati Mali Surakhya Manch.
Arrest Linked to Anti-Mining Movement
Dr Sequeira’s arrest is linked to an FIR registered on April 7, 2026, concerning an incident in Kantamal village. The FIR accuses him of several offences, including rioting with deadly weapons, dacoity and attempted murder. However, people associated with the Sijimali anti-mining movement describe his role as that of a community doctor and supporter of tribal villagers.
A Doctor Dedicated to Tribal Healthcare
Sequeira moved to Odisha in 2017 after completing his medical studies. He worked extensively in tribal villages across Kalahandi and Rayagada districts, particularly in Kerpai village.
He believed healthcare extended beyond hospitals and medicines, emphasising the importance of food, nutrition, forests, land and livelihoods in maintaining community health.
He also helped establish a tuberculosis clinic in Sukinda around 2022 to address health problems associated with chromite mining. He reportedly documented health concerns, including kidney problems and skin infections, in mining-affected areas.
Why Are Villagers Opposing Sijimali Mining?
The Sijimali mining controversy began in 2023, when villagers started opposing a proposed bauxite mining project awarded to Vedanta Limited.
Residents from 44 villages, including Kondh, Kutia, Jhodia and Dalit communities, have been demanding cancellation of the mining lease, citing threats to their land, forests, culture and traditional way of life.
Medical Community Condemns Arrest
Meanwhile, the Medico Friend Circle has condemned the arrests. Dr Cyriac Abby Philips, popularly known as TheLiverDoc, has also appealed to the medical fraternity to support Sequeira, highlighting his contribution to underserved tribal communities.
His arrest has brought renewed attention to the ongoing conflict between mining projects and tribal rights in Odisha.