Protests Escalate Against Oil Exploration Near Hollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary

Protests intensified in Jorhat as KMSS, student groups, and civil society opposed oil exploration in the eco-sensitive zones (ESZ) of Hollongapar Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary. The agitation follows the National Wildlife Board granting Vedanta’s Cairn Oil & Gas permission for exploratory drilling, raising ecological and seismic concerns. Protestors demanded a halt, citing threats to endangered Hoolock gibbons and elephants. Cairn assured no extraction in ESZ, but fears persist. The 264.92 sq km sanctuary’s fate hangs in the balance as activists vow stronger action if drilling continues.