The statewide Odisha Bandh called by Navnirman Krushak Sangathan on January 28 gained momentum after both Congress and BJD announced support.
The bandh will run from 6 AM to 2 PM, focusing on issues such as mismanagement in paddy procurement, excessive fines linked to vehicle pollution certificates, and rising electricity tariffs under Tata Power.
Congress first declared its support, with PCC President Bhakta Charan Das directing all district committees to participate. Later, BJD spokesperson Lenin Mohanty welcomed the bandh decision, calling it a positive step and wishing the farmers’ organisation success. He noted that BJD has already been raising farmers’ issues and concerns over PUC and Smart City projects.
Navnirman Krushak Sangathan demanded procurement of paddy at Rs 3100 per quintal, timely payments to farmers, and strict action against middlemen and corrupt officials. The organisation also received backing from Navnirman Yubachhatra Sangathan, which carried out rallies and public campaigns across Bhubaneswar to mobilise support.
Meanwhile, the BJP dismissed the bandh as a “fake farmers’ protest.” Party spokesperson Manoj Mahapatra claimed the organisation lacks credibility and accused Congress of propping it up. He argued that under the current government, farmers are motivated, while middlemen thrived during the BJD’s rule.
RELATED STORY: Congress Supports Odisha Bandh on Jan 28 Over Farmers’ and Public Issues
