LoP Naveen Write to CM Majhi, Demands Urgent Action on Paddy Procurement Crisis
Bhubaneswar: Odisha Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik has sharply criticised the state government’s handling of paddy procurement during the ongoing kharif season, accusing it of betraying farmers and failing to deliver on election promises.
In a letter to Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Patnaik highlighted widespread farmer distress caused by deductions of 5–7 kg per quintal during procurement, known locally as katni-chhatni. He alleged collusion between millers and officials, leaving cultivators shortchanged despite the Union government’s recent hike in Minimum Support Price (MSP).
Patnaik also condemned the cap of 150 quintals on input subsidy, calling it a violation of the ruling party’s manifesto pledge to support farmers fully. He noted that mismanagement at mandis has forced farmers to guard their produce overnight against theft and damage, while delays in token distribution and DBT payments have triggered distress sales below MSP.
The LoP demanded urgent corrective measures, including:
- Ending katni-chhatni with special squads in mandis.
- Removing the 150‑quintal subsidy ceiling.
- Ensuring DBT payments within 48 hours.
- Lifting all paddy lying in mandis within 72 hours.
Patnaik warned that continued neglect of farmer grievances is fueling protests across Odisha, urging the government to act before the situation escalates further.
