Genius Book of Records proudly recognizes Dr. Santosh Kumar Dehury with the prestigious title “Social Impact Leader of the Year 2026”, honoring his extraordinary contribution to society through four decades of selfless service, activism, and leadership.
Dr. Dehury is a renowned Jal Satyagrahi, social and human rights activist, journalist, and World Citizen Peace Ambassador, whose life’s work stands as a symbol of courage, integrity, and non-violent resistance. For over 40 years, he has been at the forefront of movements that amplify the voices of marginalized and displaced communities, consistently advocating for justice, dignity, and human rights.
His most significant and historic contribution came in December 2023, when he led a 12-day continuous Jal Satyagraha from 01-12-2023 to 12-12-2023 at the Rengali Dam multi-project water reservoir area, popularly known as Pallahara – the 2nd Chilika. This extraordinary act of peaceful protest was undertaken on behalf of 12,000 displaced families belonging to 263 submerged villages, whose lives and livelihoods were severely affected by the Rengali Dam project.
As the President and principal leader of the Pallahara Rengali Budi Kshyatigrasta Praja Sangha, Dr. Dehury demonstrated exemplary leadership by uniting affected communities and transforming their collective pain into a powerful movement grounded in truth and non-violence. Standing in water for 12 consecutive days, the Jal Satyagraha became a rare and courageous symbol of resistance, resilience, and moral strength.
The Jal Satyagraha 2023 gained national and international recognition, with multiple organizations acknowledging it as a world-record-level act of peaceful protest and social leadership. It received awards and honors from various platforms, highlighting its global relevance in the fields of human rights, environmental justice, and democratic expression.
Beyond activism, Dr. Dehury’s role as a journalist has further strengthened his impact, as he continues to document truths, raise awareness, and inspire dialogue. His identity as a World Citizen Peace Ambassador reflects his belief that social justice transcends borders and that peace must be rooted in equity and compassion.
By conferring this title, Genius Book of Records celebrates not just a record, but a legacy – a life devoted to humanity, courageously standing for the rights of the unheard and the displaced. Dr. Santosh Kumar Dehury’s journey is a timeless reminder that true leadership is measured by service, sacrifice, and steadfast commitment to justice.
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