Opposition Congress and BJP on Wednesday pooh-poohed the State Government’s farmer suicide report and demanded that either a House Committee or a Judicial Commission probe the issue.
Initiating discussion on a Motion placed by him in the State Assembly, leader of Opposition Narasingha Mishra said the report prepared on the basis of inquiries conducted by district Collectors is completely wrong and has been drafted to cover up the Government’s failure in meeting the drought situation that has forced many farmers to commit suicide.
Mishra too sought constitution of an all-party panel in each district to take stock of drought situation. He too wanted that Chief Minister gives a reply on the issue in the House.
To substantiate the Opposition’s claim for unabated farmer suicide cases, Mishra read out names of 141 farmers, who, according to him, committed suicide due to crop loss and loan burden. He said each of the farmers committed suicide due to the State Government’s negligence towards the farming community.
Mishra too alleged that the Government has failed to keep its promise to provide agricultural loans at one per cent interest and free electricity to the farmers. He said the farmers have lost confidence in the Government for the latter hoodwinked them.
Mishra reiterated his party’s demand payment of compensation of Rs 20,000 per acre of crop loss and Rs 20 lakh to family of each deceased farmers. The BJP too joined lashed out at the ruling BJD on the issue.
“The Government has failed in containing farmer problems. We are demanding a compensation of Rs 20 lakh for the families of the deceased farmers and Rs 20,000 per acre in the drought-affected areas,” BJP MlA Pradeep Purohit said.
However, the State Government rejected the Opposition’s claim.
“The State Government has taken all possible steps to provide support to farmers. The Government is always with farmers and assistances announced by the
State Government will reach each affected farmer on time,” said Revenue and Disaster Management Minister in his reply to the motion.