The Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly’s budget session faced turmoil on its sixth day as debates flared up concerning delays in paddy procurement in Bastar and allegations of illegal opium cultivation in Durg’s Samoda village. Opposition Congress members protested by walking out during the proceedings. The session commenced with Question Hour at 11 AM, with Congress MLAs questioning the government sharply about the non-procurement of paddy from tribal farmers.
Former Excise Minister Kabasi Lakhma, a senior Congress MLA, spearheaded the discussion, highlighting the unprocured paddy from over 32,200 tribal farmers in Bastar. He emphasized that despite possessing valid tokens, many farmers were unable to sell their produce, plunging them into distress after borrowing for cultivation. Lakhma pressed the government on whether it would reimburse these loans, underscoring the anguish and financial struggles faced by the affected farmers.
Food Minister Dayaldas Baghel responded by affirming the government’s commitment to buying paddy from all farmers who brought it to the designated centers. He refuted claims of widespread non-procurement, attributing it to farmers failing to reach the centers. Dissatisfied with the minister’s response, Congress members from the Opposition chanted slogans and left the House during Question Hour, deeming the reply unsatisfactory and evasive.
During Zero Hour, tensions escalated over the alleged illegal opium cultivation in Samoda village, Durg. The issue led to a heated confrontation between the ruling and Opposition Benches, prompting the Speaker to temporarily adjourn the House. The opium controversy gained prominence after a police raid on March 6 in Samoda village uncovered 4-5 acres of poppy crop hidden among maize plants — a first in Durg district. The seized opium, valued at around Rs 8 crore, resulted in arrests, including a local BJP Kisan Morcha leader, who was promptly suspended by his party amid Opposition backlash.
