Odisha Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik has written to Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, accusing the government of failing to honour election promises on paddy procurement and farmer welfare.
Patnaik expressed concern over the plight of farmers during the ongoing kharif paddy procurement season. He alleged that mandis have turned into centres of exploitation due to administrative apathy and broken promises.
He reminded the CM that the BJP manifesto in 2024 promised higher MSP for paddy and an end to deductions during procurement. However, farmers continue to face “katni-chhatni,” losing 5–7 kg per quintal under various pretexts. He accused millers and officials of collusion, depriving farmers of fair returns.
Patnaik also criticised the government for capping input subsidy at 150 quintals per farmer, calling it a betrayal of the manifesto. He demanded a subsidy on the entire produce, pointing out that the Union government recently raised MSP by Rs 69, which Odisha farmers have not received.
He highlighted mismanagement in mandis, where farmers stay overnight to protect their paddy from theft and damage. Token distribution failures and delays in DBT payments have forced farmers into distress sales at prices below MSP.
Patnaik urged immediate steps:
- End katni-chhatni with special squads in mandis.
- Withdraw the 150-quintal ceiling on subsidy.
- Ensure DBT payments are made within 48 hours as promised.
- Lift all paddy lying in mandis within 72 hours.
He warned that continued failure to address farmer grievances is intensifying protests across the state.
