TNI Bureau: Addressing a massive farmers’ gathering, Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik launched a sharp attack on the State Government, accusing it of neglecting farmers and failing to deliver on election promises. He said the government’s slogan of “Jai Kisan” has turned into “Bhago Kisan” in reality, alleging that farmers are being ignored despite tall claims.

Patnaik said the government is close to completing two years in office but has failed both in decision-making and implementation. “Governments cannot run on stories and slogans. People want service, not lectures from leaders,” he said.

He reminded the gathering that the previous BJD government had introduced several farmer-oriented initiatives, including a separate agriculture budget, irrigation support, credit facilities and the KALIA Yojana. In contrast, he questioned what the present “double engine” government has done for cultivators.

Highlighting farmers’ grievances, Patnaik alleged that fertilisers are not available on time, paddy procurement is irregular, and deductions during procurement have increased. He said farmers are not receiving payments on schedule and their complaints are being dismissed by the administration.

The BJD leader said he had written to the government urging it to fulfil election promises and address farmers’ concerns. He proposed forming special squads to stop irregular deductions in paddy procurement, breaking the nexus between millers and officials, removing the 150-quintal ceiling on input subsidies, ensuring Direct Benefit Transfer payments within 48 hours, and purchasing paddy lying in open yards within 72 hours.

Expressing disappointment, he said no action has been taken even after 15 days. He criticised the government for spending heavily on publicity while ignoring farmers’ problems and said the BJD has been raising these issues in the Assembly for days without any response.

Patnaik also raised concerns over law and order, claiming that people in the state feel unsafe. He alleged that farmers are denied their rights, women lack security, and young people face unemployment and repeated examination paper leaks. He said the government has failed to conduct even a single examination properly.

Reiterating his party’s commitment, Patnaik said the Biju Janata Dal will continue its struggle for farmers’ rights and will not allow the government to remain indifferent.

“The people need service, not speeches,” he said, warning that if farmers’ problems are not resolved, the BJD will intensify its agitation and force the government to act.