On June 5, 2025, during a protest march organised by Niyamgiri Surakshya Samithi at Sijimali, Kashipur (World Environment Day), internationally renowned activist Medha Patkar and several Odisha HRDs traveled to the area to support the movement against bauxite mining. On June 4, the Rayagada District Collector issued a prohibitory order, barring Medha Patkar, Prafulla Samantaray, Lingaraj Azad, and others from entering the entire district. On June 5 at 4:30 AM, Patkar and colleagues were detained by Rayagada Police upon arrival at the railway station, then forcibly escorted out of the district. The move, justified as preventive action, in reality prevented their participation in an environmental justice rally and public opposition to industrial mining. This episode represents a serious violation of freedoms of assembly and movement for human rights defenders.

HRDA asks NHRC to take suo moto cognizance under Section 12(a), launch an independent investigation, and ensure protection for HRDs participating in peaceful protests.