Naveen Patnaik Launches Scathing Attack on Odisha BJP Government Over Farmer Woes
In a strongly worded letter addressed to Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik has launched a sharp and direct attack on the ruling BJP government in Odisha. The former Chief Minister has accused the administration of betraying the state's farming community during the ongoing paddy procurement season, highlighting what he describes as systemic exploitation of cultivators.
Allegations of Farmer Harassment and Exploitation
Naveen Patnaik has detailed multiple grievances faced by farmers across Odisha's agricultural markets. According to his letter, cultivators are experiencing significant harassment at mandis, arbitrary deductions in the name of quality checks, unacceptable delays in payment processing, and restrictive limitations on crucial subsidies. These conditions, he argues, are forcing many farmers into distress sales of their produce, creating financial hardship across rural communities.
The former Chief Minister emphasized the stark contrast between BJP's electoral promises and the current ground reality. He pointed out that the BJP's 2024 manifesto specifically promised enhanced Minimum Support Prices, complete removal of arbitrary deductions, and timely payments to farmers. Instead, Patnaik claims the current procurement system reflects what he termed "systemic exploitation" of the agricultural workforce that forms the backbone of Odisha's economy.
Specific Demands and Warning of Protests
Naveen Patnaik has presented the Odisha government with several specific demands to address the ongoing crisis:
- Immediate lifting of the 150-quintal ceiling on input subsidies for farmers
- Strict enforcement of payment processing within 48 hours through Direct Benefit Transfer systems
- Complete lifting of paddy stocks from procurement centers within 72 hours of arrival
The opposition leader issued a clear warning that failure to implement these measures could trigger widespread statewide protests from the farming community. He expressed particular concern about what he described as arbitrary deductions of 5 to 7 kilograms per quintal under questionable justifications of moisture content or alleged poor quality, despite repeated government assurances of a "hassle-free" procurement process.
Subsidy Cap Controversy
A significant point of contention highlighted in the letter concerns the input subsidy program. While the BJP government had promised farmers a subsidy of Rs 800 per quintal to support agricultural operations, the recent decision to cap this subsidy at a maximum of 150 quintals per farmer has drawn sharp criticism. Naveen Patnaik characterized this limitation as a clear breach of trust with the agricultural community that depends on these financial supports for their livelihood.
BJP's Counter-Response
Responding to the allegations, BJP MLA Babu Singh dismissed Naveen Patnaik's criticism as political opportunism. Singh suggested that the former Chief Minister should engage in introspection after governing Odisha for 24 years without fulfilling numerous promises made to the farming community during his own administration.
The BJP legislator asserted that the Majhi-led government had already delivered on its commitment by implementing a Rs 800 bonus per quintal soon after assuming office. "Naveen doesn't know the ABC of farming," Singh stated, adding that "the Majhi government is pro-farmer and committed to their welfare." He concluded by emphasizing that agricultural issues should not be politicized for electoral gains.
The exchange highlights growing tensions between the opposition and ruling party regarding agricultural policy in Odisha, with farmers caught in the middle of this political confrontation during a crucial procurement season that directly impacts their economic wellbeing.
