Odisha Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik addressed the BJD Chasi Samabesh, sharply criticising the government for failing to deliver on promises made to farmers.
He accused the administration of raising slogans like “Jai Kisan” while neglecting real farmer concerns.
Patnaik said the government has completed nearly two years but failed to take decisive steps or implement effective measures. He reminded the audience that during elections, leaders made tall promises, but farmers received nothing in return.
Highlighting BJD’s record, Patnaik pointed out that his party introduced a separate budget for farmers, launched the KALIA scheme, ensured loan facilities, and expanded irrigation support. He questioned what the current double-engine government has done, noting that farmers struggle without fertilisers, paddy procurement remains incomplete, and payments are delayed.
He revealed that he had written to the government urging fulfilment of election commitments and suggested measures such as forming special squads to stop exploitation, breaking the nexus between millers and officials, removing ceilings on input subsidies, ensuring DBT payments within 48 hours, and purchasing paddy within 72 hours. He lamented that even after 15 days, no action was taken.
Patnaik accused the government of spending crores on publicity while ignoring farmers. He said BJD continues to fight for farmers’ rights in the assembly and warned that the party will awaken the government from its “Kumbhakarna sleep.”
He added that people want service, not speeches, and stressed that governance requires action, not stories.
