A heated political confrontation has erupted in Odisha over an alleged shortage of urea fertiliser, pitting the opposition Biju Janata Dal (BJD) against the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
Former Chief Minister and BJD Supremo Naveen Patnaik has written a strongly worded letter to Union Minister of Chemicals and Fertilisers Jagat Prasad Nadda, demanding immediate central intervention to normalise supplies. In response, State Food Supplies & CW Minister Krushna Chandra Patra has firmly denied any shortage, while BJP State President Manmohan Samal launched a scathing attack on Patnaik’s credibility.
The controversy stems from widespread reports of urea scarcity disrupting farming activities across the state. Farmers are struggling to access the essential fertiliser, with allegations of rampant black marketing driving up prices.
In his letter, Patnaik highlighted the critical role of urea in Odisha’s agricultural success, noting that the state has transformed from a rice-deficient region to a surplus producer over the past two decades. “Fertiliser is a key input in agricultural production, and its timely availability is essential for farming,” Patnaik wrote, emphasising the need for urgent action in the larger interest of the farming community.
Patnaik pointed out that despite the state government’s claims of having 7.94 lakh tons of urea in stock, the fertiliser is not reaching farmers. Many are forced to buy it at inflated rates from the open market, and in several areas, the unavailability has halted cultivation altogether. “The Centre must intervene immediately to address this,” he urged, underscoring the hardships faced by farmers.
Reacting to the letter, Supplies Minister Patra dismissed the concerns, stating unequivocally that there is no shortage of urea in Odisha. BJP’s Samal went further, accusing Patnaik of lacking moral authority on the issue. “Since the Modi government came to power at the centre 11 years ago, there has been no fertiliser shortage,” Samal said. He recalled alleged scams worth thousands of crores during previous regimes, where funds reportedly flowed into party coffers, and contrasted it with the current transparency. “Under Naveen Patnaik’s rule, farmers blocked roads demanding fertiliser. He has no right to lecture now,” Samal added sharply.
On the flip side, BJD MLA Arun Sahu countered by alleging a deliberate scam in urea distribution under the BJP government. “An artificial shortage is being created to harass farmers, and black marketing is thriving,” Sahu claimed, holding the ruling party fully responsible. He urged the minister to fulfil his duties and prioritise farmers’ welfare instead of evading accountability.
This face-off highlights deeper political tensions in Odisha, where agriculture remains a lifeline for millions. As the kharif season progresses, the unresolved urea issue could further impact crop yields and farmer livelihoods, potentially escalating the blame game between the two parties. Stakeholders are watching closely for any central response to Patnaik’s plea.
