“Advocacy Success of APAL and APAL’s State Committee in Odisha”

On 11th August 2025, APAL’s State Committee in Odisha, along with Mr. Prabhakar Sahoo, Board Member of APAL, held an important advocacy meeting with the Chief Secretary of Odisha and the Revenue Secretary.

The discussions focused on the land rights, housing, livelihood, and healthcare issues faced by people affected by leprosy in Odisha. A 200-page memorandum with detailed concerns and recommendations was presented during the meeting by Prabhakar Sahoo and Jayant Pradhan.

As a result of these continued efforts, on 15th September 2025, the Revenue & Disaster Management Department, Government of Odisha, issued an official directive to all District Collectors regarding the grievance petition submitted by APAL’s representatives.

The directive specifically addresses the grant of homestead land to the residents of 86 self-settled leprosy colonies across the State, instructing Collectors to take appropriate action as per law for speedy redressal of these grievances and to report back to the Department.

This is a major step forward in resolving the long-standing land rights issues of persons affected by leprosy in Odisha.

APAL and its State Committee in Odisha reaffirm their commitment to work for justice, dignity, and secure living conditions for our community.