Will Congress Back the Odisha Bandh by Naba Nirman Krushak Sangathan?
Synopsis
In a significant move, the Congress Party has rallied behind the Odisha Bandh initiated by the Naba Nirman Krushak Sangathan, spotlighting urgent issues in agriculture and environmental regulations. This action reflects growing discontent among farmers. Will this support amplify the voice of the farming community in Odisha?
Key Takeaways
Congress Party supports Odisha Bandh on January 28.
Protests focus on paddy procurement issues.
Concerns over Smart Meters and fines under PUCC.
BJD acknowledges the distress of farmers.
Essential services to remain unaffected during the bandh.
Bhubaneswar, Jan 27 (NationPress) The Congress Party, which is in opposition, has declared its support for the Odisha Bandh scheduled for January 28, initiated by the Odisha Naba Nirman Krushak Sangathan. This decision stems from concerns over alleged mismanagement in paddy procurement, the implementation of Smart Meters, and the imposition of excessive fines linked to the Pollution Under Control Certificate (PUCC).
The party's announcement was made via a video message, confirming that the Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (OPCC) will actively support the bandh on January 28.
According to the party's media cell in the video, Congress has previously organized extensive protests addressing various pressing issues, including significant mismanagement in paddy procurement statewide. This includes allegations of farmers being denied input subsidies when selling paddy beyond 150 quintals, along with excessive fines being charged under the guise of PUCC regulations, reflecting the arbitrary nature of the state government and the OERC.
“Given that the Naba Nirman Krushak Sangathan has called for the Odisha bandh regarding these public interest concerns on January 28, the OPCC has decided to endorse the bandh,” the party stated.
PCC president Bhakta Charan Das, through the video message, urged all district Congress committees, workers, and members throughout the state to show their support for the bandh.
The main opposition party, Biju Janata Dal (BJD), welcomed the bandh initiated by the Naba Nirman Krushak Sangathan, viewing it as a positive indication of the distress faced by the farming community in the state.
BJD spokesperson Lenin Mohanty remarked that the party would continue with its previously announced series of demonstrations statewide from February 2 to 17, culminating in a significant protest rally in Bhubaneswar on February 24 addressing paddy procurement and law-and-order issues.
In the meantime, while addressing the media, national convener of the Naba Nirman Krushak Sangathan, Akshya Kumar, stated that the organization will observe the bandh on January 28 from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m., protesting against the mismanagement in paddy procurement at mandis statewide and the excessive fines being levied under the pollution certificate regulations.
He also assured that rail services and critical services such as hospitals and ambulances would remain unaffected during the eight-hour Odisha bandh.
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize the Congress Party's support for the Odisha Bandh as a reflection of escalating tensions within the agricultural sector. This collaboration with the Naba Nirman Krushak Sangathan highlights the urgent need for effective dialogue and resolution between the government and farmers. The situation merits careful observation as it unfolds, given its potential impact on the political landscape in Odisha.
NationPress
9 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the reason behind the Odisha Bandh?
The Odisha Bandh has been called to protest against alleged mismanagement in paddy procurement, the installation of Smart Meters, and the excessive fines related to the Pollution Under Control Certificate (PUCC).
When will the Odisha Bandh take place?
The Odisha Bandh is scheduled for January 28, from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Which political party is supporting the bandh?
The opposition Congress Party has announced its support for the Odisha Bandh.
Will essential services be affected during the bandh?
No, essential services like Railways, hospitals, and ambulances will not be impacted during the eight-hour Odisha bandh.
What are the main issues being protested?
The main issues include mismanagement in paddy procurement, the controversial Smart Meter installations, and the collection of excessive fines under PUCC regulations.
