Bhubaneswar, Feb 24 (NationPress) The opposition Biju Janata (BJD) organized a significant farmers' rally at the Lower PMG in Bhubaneswar on Tuesday, protesting against the state government’s purportedly anti-farmer policies and the worsening law-and-order situation in the region.

Numerous BJD members and leaders assembled at Master Canteen Square and proceeded to the Lower PMG, where a large gathering took place.

During his speech, BJD president and Leader of Opposition (LoP) Naveen Patnaik criticized the BJP-led state government, expressing grave concerns about alleged irregularities in mandis and the escalating law and order issues.

Patnaik stated that while the current government champions the slogan “Jai Kisan” (Hail Farmers), its actions suggest a different narrative: “Bhago Kisan” (Run Away, Farmers). He emphasized that a government must act decisively rather than rely solely on rhetoric and speeches.

“As this government approaches its two-year mark in office, it has failed in both decision-making and execution. During the election campaign, they made grand promises, yet none have been fulfilled,” Patnaik asserted.

He highlighted the pro-farmer initiatives of the previous BJD administration, such as the establishment of a separate agriculture budget, the implementation of the KALIA (Krushak Assistance for Livelihood and Income Augmentation) scheme, provision of credit support, and expansion of irrigation facilities for farmers.

Furthermore, Patnaik claimed that farmers are facing delays in receiving fertilizers, improper paddy procurement processes, and a rise in illegal practices such as “katni-chhatni” (weight deductions in paddy).

He pointed out that farmers are not receiving timely payments, and when they voice their grievances, the government tends to dismiss their concerns. Patnaik mentioned that he had contacted the government, urging it to sincerely fulfill its electoral promises and address farmers’ issues.

Among his proposals were the formation of a special team to combat “katni-chhatni,” dismantling the alleged collusion between millers and government officials, removing the 150-quintal limit on input subsidies, ensuring direct benefit transfers (DBT) to farmers within 48 hours, and procuring paddy lying in open fields within 72 hours.

“It is regrettable that 15 days have passed without any action. Hundreds of crores are being allocated for publicity, yet farmers' needs remain unaddressed. For the past eight days, the BJD has been advocating in the Assembly regarding farmers’ challenges, but the government seems indifferent,” Patnaik lamented.

Regarding the law-and-order situation, Patnaik expressed that the public feels unsafe, citing that women are vulnerable, and the youth are struggling to find employment. He also condemned the recurring examination paper leaks, asserting that the government has failed to conduct a single examination properly.

“Citizens require services, not mere political speeches. A government must produce results, not narratives,” Patnaik declared, reiterating that the BJD will persist in advocating for farmers’ rights until the government awakens to their plight.