Bhubaneswar, Dec 3: Leader of Opposition Narasingha Mishra demanded investigation of reports submitted by district officials on farmers’ suicide cases by a House Committee or a Judicial commission.
Rubbishing the reports on farmers’ suicide, he said in the House that reports have been drafted with a view to protect the State Government.
Mishra said, an all-party panel should be formed in the state to take stock of the grim situation so that some positive steps can be taken.
Moving an adjournment motion on farmers’ suicides and the alleged lackadaisical attitude of the government, Mishra said a total of 141 farmers have committed suicide in the state due to crop loss and loan burden.
Claiming that the report of district collectors over farmers’ suicide deaths is false, he demanded a judicial probe or house committee probe to unearth the truth.
“Drought is nothing new for the State. Earlier, some farmers had committed suicide but not in such a large number. This government is totally unconcerned about farmers’ suicides and has failed to protect their lives,” said the senior Congress leader.
Mishra also lashed out at the government for failing to keep its promise on providing agricultural loan at one percent interest and free electricity to the farmers.
He said the farmers have lost confidence in the government for having hoodwinked them.
“Did you not promise that you would provide free electricity? Have you given it to the farmers? On the contrary, the farmers are asked to pay higher tariff. You betrayed them. Is it pro-farmer policy of the government?,” asked Mishra while seeking a statement by the chief minister in the house.
The BJP too joined the chorus with the Congress to corner the ruling BJD in the issue.
“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.
Countering the allegations, BJD spokesperson Amar Satpathy said, “The State government is providing the assistance to the farmers as per Relief Code. Besides, it is doing all possible help for the farming community.”
