Chhattisgarh Assembly Erupts Over Paddy Procurement Issues and Opium Cultivation Claims
Synopsis
Tensions soared in the Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly as fierce debates arose regarding paddy procurement delays and illegal opium cultivation in Durg. The Opposition's walkout highlighted the farmers' distress amid growing allegations.
Key Takeaways
Turmoil in the Assembly: Intense debates over agriculture and drug cultivation.
Farmers' Distress: Over 32,200 tribal farmers affected by procurement delays.
Government's Stance: Commitment to purchase paddy from farmers who reach centers.
Opium Controversy: First case of illegal opium cultivation discovered in Durg district.
Political Fallout: Arrests and suspensions within the BJP amid rising scrutiny.
Raipur, March 9 (NationPress) The budget session of the Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly faced significant turmoil on its sixth day as intense discussions broke out regarding delays in paddy procurement in the Bastar revenue division and claims of illegal opium cultivation in Samoda village, located in Durg district.
In protest, members of the Opposition Congress walked out.
The session commenced at 11 AM with Question Hour, during which Congress MLAs aggressively questioned the government about the unprocessed paddy from tribal farmers.
Former Excise Minister and senior Congress MLA Kabasi Lakhma spearheaded the opposition, revealing that paddy from over 32,200 tribal farmers across five districts in Bastar had not been procured.
He highlighted that numerous farmers possessed valid tokens yet remained unable to sell their crops, putting them in distress after securing loans for farming.
Lakhma pressed the government on whether it would assist in repaying these loans, stressing the profound sadness and financial strain faced by the affected farmers.
In response, Food Minister Dayaldas Baghel affirmed the government's commitment to purchasing paddy from all farmers who brought it to the designated centers.
He contended that procurement could not take place for those who did not reach the centers, dismissing claims of widespread non-procurement as incorrect.
Unimpressed by the minister's response, Opposition Congress members shouted slogans and exited the House during Question Hour, denouncing what they viewed as an unsatisfactory and evasive reply.
The situation intensified further during Zero Hour when allegations surrounding illegal opium cultivation in Samoda village were brought to light.
This matter triggered a considerable uproar, leading to heated exchanges between the ruling and Opposition benches, forcing the Speaker to temporarily adjourn the session.
The opium controversy attracted significant attention following a police raid on March 6 in Samoda village, where officials uncovered 4-5 acres of opium poppy concealed among maize crops — marking the first instance of such a case in Durg district.
The confiscated opium was valued at approximately Rs 8 crore, resulting in arrests, including a local leader from the BJP's Kisan Morcha, who was subsequently suspended by his party amid rising Opposition criticism.
Point of View
Presenting both challenges for the ruling party and significant concerns for the farmers affected.
NationPress
6 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What sparked the uproar in the Chhattisgarh Assembly?
Fierce debates erupted over delays in paddy procurement and allegations of illegal opium cultivation in Durg district.
Who led the charge against the government regarding paddy procurement?
Former Excise Minister and senior Congress MLA Kabasi Lakhma led the charge, highlighting the plight of over 32,200 tribal farmers.
What was the government's response to the procurement issues?
Food Minister Dayaldas Baghel stated that the government was committed to purchasing paddy from all farmers who reached designated centers.
What was discovered during the police raid in Samoda village?
Authorities found 4-5 acres of opium poppy concealed among maize crops, marking a significant incident in Durg district.
What was the estimated value of the seized opium?
The seized opium was valued at approximately Rs 8 crore.
