RSP Reclaims Bhanja Bhawan Complex From 'Illegal' Possession

ENDING a long-drawn legal battle, the authorities of Rourkela Steel Plant (RSP) with help of local police took possession of 3.19 acres of land at Sector 5 from the 'illegal' possession of Adarsh Pathagar on Friday.

- EXPRESS NEWS SERVICE @ Rourkela

Interestingly, the reclamation of the valuable landed property was done not on court order, but after the lapse of a three-month stay order from the Orissa High Court.

The prime land parcel contains the Adarsh Pathagar building along with the entire Bhanja Bhawan complex, including the Bhanja Kala Kendra, Bhanja auditorium, two other halls, an open ground, and a couple of residential structures. With a necessary eviction drive, the RSP sealed all the landed assets on the day.

Way back in 1974, the 3.19-acre land parcel was sub-leased to Adarsh Pathagar for a nominal amount. During 1982, the Bhanja Cultural Trust was formed under the patronage of the RSP, and the Pathagar was brought under its control.