BHUBANESWAR: As rice millers stopped lifting paddy from mandis on Tuesday, protesting non-fulfilment of their demands, the state government warned that any effort to obstruct procurement operations will invite strict action as per law.
Terming the action of the All Odisha Rice Millers’ Association (AORMA) “unjustified and ill-timed”, Cooperation minister Pradeep Bal Samant said it was an attempt to create pressure on the government during the crucial peak paddy procurement season.
Responding to the four-point charter of demands raised by the millers’ association, the minister said none of the demands had any factual or practical basis and accused them of deliberately trying to disrupt the procurement process at a time when farmers are most dependent on speedy lifting of their produce.
“The paddy procurement season is at its peak. At this sensitive time, such pressure tactics are irresponsible and go against farmers’ interests. The government will not tolerate any attempt to disturb the smooth procurement process,” Samant asserted.
He categorically stated that all four demands placed by AORMA are without substance and maintained that the millers seem to be working under the influence of forces inimical to the state and the farmers.
“Any effort to obstruct procurement operations or mislead farmers would invite strict action. The state government’s priority is to protect farmers’ interests. We will not allow any group to hold the system hostage,” he warned.
The minister said the demand for increase in custody and maintenance charges are unjust because the millers are lifting paddy as per their capacity. It is the responsibility of millers to store their paddy. Why should government pay storage charge? he asked.
The minister, who held a meeting with AORMA representatives at his official residence on the day, appealed them to cooperate with the administration instead of creating unnecessary uncertainty in the market. He assured that the government remains open to constructive dialogue but will not yield to unreasonable pressure.