Bhubaneswar: The Nav Nirman Krishan Sangathan has announced a statewide bandh in Odisha on January 28 to protest alleged irregularities in paddy procurement and mandi operations, along with what it describes as heavy and unreasonable fines imposed on farmers in the name of pollution certificates.
According to statements and announcements circulating online, the farmers’ organisation has raised concerns over the functioning of paddy mandis, alleging mismanagement in the purchase and storage of paddy. The group has demanded transparent mandi operations and fair procurement practices to ensure that farmers receive appropriate compensation for their produce.
Another key demand highlighted by the organisation is the withdrawal of fines linked to pollution certificate requirements, which it claims are placing an additional financial burden on farmers. The Sangathan has termed these penalties excessive and has called for their immediate scrapping.
The proposed bandh is intended to draw public attention to what the organisation describes as long-standing grievances faced by farmers, particularly rice growers and rural communities across the state. Supporters of the movement are expected to participate in the shutdown to press for corrective action from the authorities.
As of now, there has been no official response from the Odisha government regarding the demands. Details on security arrangements, essential services, and the potential impact of the bandh are also awaited from the administration and law enforcement agencies.
-OdishaAge
