Chandigarh, Nov 14 (NationPress) Former Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Hooda expressed on Friday that the recent election outcomes in Bihar do not reflect the sentiments of the public, and the Grand Alliance was caught off guard by such results.

“The Congress will meticulously examine the reasons for the defeat in Bihar and undertake a comprehensive review,” he stated.

In response to a media inquiry in Jhajjar, Hooda emphasized that it is the Congress’s responsibility as a vigilant Opposition in Haryana to address matters affecting public welfare.

“That is why the Congress Legislature Party has presented a memorandum to the Governor, urging action regarding farmers' losses from heavy rains, discrepancies in paddy procurement, escalating crime rates in the state, and corruption in ration card distribution,” he added.

Hooda pointed out that the recent heavy rainfall has wreaked havoc on crops across the state.

“Extensive areas of paddy, cotton, and other kharif crops have been inundated, resulting in significant financial strain for farmers. Many have lost their entire harvest, yet the government has failed to conduct a proper assessment or provide adequate compensation. The crops this year have suffered extensive damage due to excessive rainfall, and waterlogging in several regions continues to hinder the sowing of the next crop.”

The two-time Chief Minister demanded that the government carry out a special ‘girdawari’ and compensate farmers at a rate of Rs 50,000 to Rs 60,000 per acre.

He remarked that while the government claims to offer a minimum support price (MSP) for 24 crops, the reality is vastly different.

“Farmers are not receiving MSP for numerous crops, including paddy, millet, green gram, and cotton. In Haryana, they are compelled to sell paddy and millet at prices ranging from Rs 500 to Rs 600 per quintal below the MSP. Given the flood losses and distress sales, the government should provide a bonus of Rs 1,000 on all crops.”

Hooda also highlighted widespread allegations of irregularities and scams in the government procurement of paddy.

“Farmers have not received fair prices in many mandis, and reports of fraudulent transactions have raised significant concerns regarding transparency. Concurrently, there is a severe shortage of fertilizers and rampant black marketing. The Congress Legislature Party demands an investigation into the entire matter by a sitting judge of the Haryana High Court to ensure transparency and accountability,” he concluded.