As per Sambit, his father and senior BJD leader suffered a cardiac arrest on March 18. Initially, the family rushed the veteran leader to Capital Hospital in Bhubaneswar at around 3 pm and later shifted to a private hospital. However, the 'doctors at the Capital Hospital did not provide CPR during the crisis situation despite several requests', Sambit alleged.
According to Sambit, there was a delay of 15 to 20 minutes in shifting his father to a private hospital. As a result, his brain suffered extensive damage due to lack of oxygen supply to the brain.
Also Read: BJD revokes expulsion of Damodar Rout; it will give him new strength, says son Sambit
“My father’s heart started functioning after CPR was given at the private hospital but his brain is not functioning. His condition is very critical,” Routray added.
Responding to the allegations, Capital Hospital Director Laxmidhar Sahu said, “Two days back, Damodar Rout was brought to the hospital’s casualty unit; his oxygen saturation level had dropped. His records also showed that he had stage 5 kidney issues. We had provided oxygen, ECG was conducted and he was attended by a team of doctors.”
The Director further informed Damodar Rout had to be shifted to other hospital as 'we did not have specialised doctors for kidney-related issues'. The leader was provided with necessary primary treatment at the hospital here, he said.
“CPR is usually given to a person who is unable to breathe. But his (Damodar Rout) condition was not such to be given CPR. After the family brought the allegations, we conducted an investigation. As young doctors were present, they might not have identified the leader. For them (doctors), all patients are equal and shifting him to other hospital was required and there was no need to administer CPR,” the Director added.
Rout was expelled from BJD ahead of the 2019 elections on September 12, 2018 after the veteran leader started criticising the party over alleged irregularities and corruption. Subsequently, Rout had joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on March 14, 2019 in Delhi. He was seen attending several programmes of BJP and even campaigned for the saffron party. He had unsuccessfully contested on a BJP ticket from Balikuda-Ersama constituency in 2019.
However, Rout had distanced himself from the BJP and was not seen in enough events owing to health-related and other issues.
Rout’s son Sambit Routray said, “My father is ill and he is undergoing treatment at the hospital. The news of the revocation of suspension will give him new strength. My father always wanted to serve the BJD.”
Sambit further said that it is a new year gift from CM Naveen Patnaik. “My father had become mentally weak after staying away from the party (BJD). Today’s news will certainly give him happiness and we thank CM for removing the expulsion order,” said Sambit.
Sambit revealed that he had urged VK Pandian to request CM Naveen to bring his father back into the party fold two years back. Pandian had assured him to take up the matter at the appropriate time.
“I have seen the pain of my father as he devoted the bulk of his time to Biju Parivar. I had once requested VK Pandian to ask CM Naveen Patnaik to remove the expulsion order some two years back as my father had become mentally weak after staying away from BJD. My father could not stay long with BJP as his heart was BJD,” Sambit added.
Though Rout escaped unhurt, his car was partially damaged in the attack.
As per reports, Rout was on his way home when Sarpanch candidate, Saroj Sethi, who was taking out a political procession on the same road, confronted him near Balisahi village under Sailo Panchayat.
As per the allegations, Sethi hurled abuses at Rout and sent his goons to attack his vehicle. Rout’s car suffered damages in the attack.
Following the attack, Rout wrote to the Electoral Officer of Kujang, who in turn sent the Tirtol Police which arrested Sethi and seven of his associates.
Speaking to OTV, Rout said, “When I saw a political procession coming from the opposite direction, I parked my car beside the road to make way for the participants to pass. But Sethi stopped by me and started abusing me. Then his goons came ahead and attacked my car.”
While the local Electoral Officer took cognizance of the matter, Damodar Rout’s son, Sambit Rout termed it ‘personal vendetta’ while playing down possible political angle behind the incident.
Speaking to reporters, Sambit, a BJD MLA, said, “It is unacceptable for me to see my father, a senior politician, at the receiving end of such a situation. Sethi is an anti social element and the law will take its course. Eight people have already been arrested, more arrests will follow.”
The body of Bardhan was found from Sahoo's residence in the Unit-6 area of the State capital.
Rout alleged that the former Law Minister was also involved in corruption cases apart from these murder cases.
"The death of Nayagarh king is still shrouded in mystery. Moreover, his wife and well wishers are denied permission to establish the statue of the king," said Rout.
The senior leader claimed that with his help, Sahoo came into politics in 2003 and now the Nayagarh MLA is interfering into all matters of the State government ranging from Biju Pucca Ghar Yojana to Pani Panchayat.
Speaking on the sidelines of a function organised by the Praja Andolan and Soochana Adhikar Abhiyan in Nayagarh, Rout said in coming days he will reveal the actual image of Arun Sahoo.
However, comments from Arun Sahoo could not be obtained despite repeated efforts.
Odisha government has allowed the owner of Vedanta, Anil Agarwal to plunder natural resources by taking bribe from his company, Rout alleged.
Though such irregularities and illegal mining calls for a probe by CBI, it will not yield any result as there seems to be an unholy nexus between Odisha CM and the central investigating agency.
“Illegal bauxite mining is rampant during night hours and several tonnes of mineral resources are being looted. Despite provision of online transit pass, handwritten passes are being issued for transportation of minerals. All such activities are carried out by one mining officer, Manoj Guanwara Sethi who has been specially instructed in this regard by the government,” Rout alleged.
Terming Dama Rout’s allegations ‘baseless’, senior BJD leader Pratap Deb stated that it is a tactics of former only to hog limelight.
“Everything is being done in a transparent manner and details are available online and can be accessed through RTI. After the Shah Commission’s report, there is no scope for any hidden deals,” Deb added.
Dama also targeted Balikuda-Erasama MLA Prashant Muduli after a stage erected for ‘Ravana Podi’ at the Anchalika Yuva Parishad ground where the former was scheduled to attend the event, was dismantled.
“For the past nine years the function was being organised, but he was not attending it. Suddenly what happened overnight that he (Muduli) found new love for the function? By bringing politics into the function, he is only harming himself,” Rout said.
“Ravana had 10 bad natures but Naveen has more than that. Naveen should be dethroned,” Dama stated.
Despite denial of permission to hold ‘Ravana Podi Utsav,’ Damodar Rout said he celebrated the function at Paradip yesterday.
Commenting over the issue, BJD spokesperson, Samir Das said “There was a time when people were eagerly waiting for Damodar Rout to speak. Now they are least interested as there is no coherence in his words and action.”
It is pertinent to mention that supporters of Damadoar Rout called for a bandh today in Erasama protesting the dismantling of the stage.
“When the Collector, SP and VK Pandian have already decided to hold ‘Ravana Podi Utsav’ in their own way, we are reacting to it in our way,” said Nirakara Swain, a supporter of Dama in Erasama.
Meanwhile, the administration has made elaborate security arrangements for the ‘Ravana Podi Utsav’ today which will be attended by the Balikuda-Erasama MLA.
Reacting to the whole episode, Muduli said, “I am not getting into who has given permission to whom. I am only a guest at the ‘Ravana Podi Utsav’ in Erasama. A cultural function should not be politicised.”
As per reports, the district administration declined to give permission to supporters of Rout to organise 'Ravan Podi' function and dismantled the stage in presence of police. This year permission has been reportedly given to supporters of BJD's Balikuda-Erasama MLA Prashant Muduli to hold the function.
Sources said for the past 35 years Dama had been organising Ravana Podi at the Anchalika Yuva Parishad ground where Prashant used to attend the function. But, after Dama’s expulsion from BJD, he has been denied permission to hold the function.
Meanwhile, Dama alleged that the police acted at the behest of the legislator Prashant Muduli.
"After Prashant requested the administration, police dismantled the stage. When I asked the police, they said they are helpless as a phone call was made to them from the third floor. I believe the third floor is keeping a tab on where Ravana Podi can be held," said Dama.
Earlier yesterday, a peace committee meeting was held at the Erasama police station but no consensus was reached on organising the Ravana Podi Utsav at the ground.
Commenting on the matter BJD spokesperson, Samir Das said, "After being expelled from party, Damodar Rout is making up stories; there is no coherence between his work and words."
“While former Chief Minister Biju Babu used to ask people of the State to thrash corrupt officials, his son Naveen has made corruption a policy statement,” stated Rout speaking to mediapersons.
Besides, Rout said the Chief Minister knowingly allocated him the Excise department so that he will be asked to quit the post in case any death happens due to liquor consumption.
"But no one was killed due to liquor consumption during my tenure as Excise Minister. Rather, revenue of the Excise department increased to Rs 2,800 Cr during my tenure from Rs 1400 Cr earlier. If there are any irregularities in liquor shop license allocation as alleged by Sameer Das, he can disclose those," stated the senior legislator.
The senior politician also came down heavily on Cooperation Minister Surya Narayan Patro who had raised fingers at him alleging the senior leader’s link with gangster Tito. "SN Patro does not have moral standing to level charges against me. The government can handover the case to the Interpol instead of SIT to find out anything about me," said Rout.
Rout, who was instrumental in foiling a coup against Patnaik on May 29, 2012, stated that when the ruler becomes drab and unconcerned, sycophants rule the roost and the same situation is prevailing in the State.
Making a direct attack on Patnaik, Rout said the BJD president, in order to safeguard his political interests, keeps changing his ideology, which is contrary to the ideals of his father and former chief minister Biju Patnaik.
"A section of BJD leaders are now looting Odisha in the name of Biju Patnaik. This must be hurting the soul of the legendary leader. It will be good for the people of Odisha if the chief minister is unseated at the earliest," Rout said.
Dama further stated that he did not join the BJD, but Naveen accompanied by Rama Krushna Patnaik and AU Singh Deo had visited his residence and invited him to join the party.
“After the formation of the party, there was a coup within three months. I helped him (Naveen) when the dissenters said without their help he cannot win election in coastal Odisha,” said Rout.
He alleged that a conspiracy is being hatched to loot another 20 mines in the State. Besides, he lambasted Chief Minister's Private Secretary, VK Pandian and former Mayurbhanj Collector Rajesh Prabhakar Patil for the sapling scam.
Earlier today, upon his return from the national capital, Patnaik told reporters, "Dama babu has always been making irresponsible statements. His allegations are ridiculous."
Meanwhile, BJD Rajya Sabha MP, Soumya Ranjan Patnaik said, “There was no way other than expelling him because of his actions in the past few days.”
"I was actively involved in politics for last 44 years and at the age of 77 why should I think about my future. Wherever I go, I find thousands of supporters but I have no idea what they would decide to do during the elections. But one thing is sure that people of the State are desperate for a change in regime," the senior leader said.
Accusing the CM of acting on the direction of bureaucrat V K Pandian, Rout said despite ruling the State for such a long time, Chief Minister is not able to speak in Odia. "CM Naveen is expressing himself in Tamil language as he is working on Pandian's direction," Rout added.
Speaking further, Rout said he was ousted from the party for calling the Chief Minister a thief.
"The chief minister has dismissed several leaders from BJD who were associated with Biju Babu by branding them as 'thieves' but I was ousted from the party for calling the CM a 'thief'. But I don't fear anyone and will continue to speak against the CM. They can do whatever they want to," Rout said.
Responding to Rout's comments, State Culture Minister Ashok Panda said that the senior leader's claims will fall flat in the upcoming elections.
"Dama babu has been saying a lot of things after being ousted from the party. His predictions will never come true," said Panda.
During the ceremony, Rout took a dig at the State minister, who was also present on the dais.
"I thank Jena babu for coming to Paradip and his door-to-door visits but first he should set his own house in order," Rout said.
Responding to Rout's comments, the State minister said that if someone is getting happy by criticising another person then he should be allowed to do so.
"Someone who has more knowledge, wisdom, and decency is indulging in political criticism on a cultural stage. If that person is deriving happiness by criticising someone, let him do that," Jena said.
Also Read: Disproportionate assets allegations brought against Odisha CM’s private secretary
During the function, one of the wheels of Lord Jagannath's Nandighosh chariot was brought to the bali yatra ground and was placed at the Sarala mandap.
Meanwhile, devotees of Lord Jagannath have expressed dissatisfaction over the placing of the wheel on an open ground.
While speaking to mediapersons in Paradip today, Rout said "We are going to form a regional party. Even though the name has not been finalised, I have suggested 'Biju Samatakranti Dal'. Other members of the party may also come up with other names."
The expelled BJD leader had announced about his new party last month stating that it will be named after former Chief Minister late Biju Patnaik.
Ever since Rout's expulsion for his alleged anti-party activities, he has been on the centre stage of Odisha politics. The senior leader was expelled in September just days after alleging multiple instances of corruption in various departments of the State government.
In pursuance to orders from party president Naveen Patnaik, Damodar Rout has been expelled from the BJD, informed party’s state secretary, Bijay Kumar Nayak through a press release.
"I am not aware, came to know from news reports; never considered I was in party since December last,” Rout said.
"Can Naveen Patnaik confidently claim that he is the president of BJD? Which follower of Biju Babu is with him? I will contest elections, don't need any party's ticket," Rout added.
Rout had recently created ripples in the political circle by alleging irregularities and scams in disbursal of Cooperative bank loans, Omfed, distribution of saplings & in the Health department.
On Monday, BJD’s Balikuda-Erasama MLA Prashant Kumar Muduli and party’s Jagatsinghpur district president Bishnu Charan Das had met CM Naveen and urged for disciplinary action & suspension of Rout.
"A wave of happiness has swept Jagatsinghpur following Dama Rout's dismissal; he should have been removed earlier," Das said Rout’s expulsion.
Meanwhile, Congress MLA, Debendra Sharma said, “ The 'godfather' Damodar Rout was referring to is CM's private secretary, VK Pandian, who is behind Rout's dismissal.”
Earlier today, Rout had praised Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik by calling him a good human being, a writer and an artist with a clean image and has greater exposure as compared to his counterparts in the country.
Former Kendrapara MP Baijayant Panda took to Twitter to respond to Rout's expulsion.
>In the party of which i was a proud member from inception for nearly two decades, until a few short years ago when it lost its way...
>Used to be that whistle blowers were lionised & the corrupt dismissed, dropped, expelled...
>What happened that the exact opposite now prevails?— Baijayant Jay Panda (@PandaJay) September 12, 2018
In what seemed an attempt to mend the damage done by him over the past few days, Rout today said that he never uttered a single word against Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, rather he targeted the leaders and officers involved in corruption.
"I have only raised voice against corruption but never targeted the party or the State government. Officers in the State are not doing their work seriously and getting involved in irregularities. Corrupt people need to be exposed and I am doing the same," said Rout.
The ex-minister further said that CM Naveen is a good human being, a writer and an artist with a clean image and has greater exposure as compared to his counterparts in the country.
"There is no fault of the CM, rather the people around him are involved in corruption but no one is exposing them out of fear. I have never spoken a single word against Naveen Patnaik," he clarified.
If anything goes against the interest of the people, it needs to be exposed. It is the duty of the Opposition in a State to 'oppose to expose' but they are doing nothing, the BJD stalwart added.
Moreover, Rout once again raised the alleged sapling scam issue lamenting that he was removed from the ministry for suspending a corrupt official and ironically the same officer was later reinstated.
In response to Rout's sapling scam allegations, Agriculture Minister Pradeep Maharathy today said if the State Assembly Speaker directs him, he will furnish reply and order an investigation as per Rout's allegations.
"A few years ago, he was charged in connection with a criminal case. As far as I know, Bapu has no links with Tito but was scheduled to depose as witness against some close associates of Tito. So to prevent him from deposing as witness, it is a conspiracy," said Rout.
Rout further added that everyone knows who had given land to Tito in Paradip and who has been using his supporters to collect extortion and spread 'goondagiri.' In my opinion, the crime branch should interrogate them first, he said.
The special task force (STF) of Odisha Crime Branch arrested Bapu Parida today on charges of extortion and issuing murder threats.
Official sources said, Bapu who was the secretary of the Nirakar Dumper Association based in Paradip has around 28 criminal cases against his name including several cases of murder, firing, and abduction bid.
"It is the job of the leader to control and if something his out of control, whose fault will it be?" questioned Rout adding that he does not believe that CM Naveen Patnaik is working as per someone else's instructions.
Those who are making such claims should directly meet and tell the CM. It's a loss for the State that the CM is not being directly told about the matter, the veteran BJD leader added.
Earlier on Sunday, Rout sneered at CM’s private secretary VK Pandian by saying that he does not know the official as he never had anything to do with clerks.
Besides, replying to a media query on whether Pandian is the de-facto CM of the State, Rout had stated that there is no “second power centre” and the Chief Minister is guided by none.
Replying to a media query on whether Pandian is de-facto CM of the State, Rout stated, “Who is Pandian? I believe there is no "second power centre" and the Chief Minister is guided by none.”
Further taking a jibe at the official, the veteran BJD leader stated that the State Secretariat has more than 4,000 staff and Pandian might be one of them. “I have not come across Pandian and don’t know him,” Rout said.
“I have been a minister several times but never had anything to do with clerks. There are 50 employees in the CMO and VK Pandian is one of them; I do not understand why is he being given so much importance?” the senior BJD leader asked.
"I am presently disposed off by the party so what can I say about others. Baijayant Panda was suspended from the party after which a show-cause notice should be served to him. However, he resigned from the BJD so what can the party do now as an elected member stays in a party till he or she resigns. Baijayant Panda has not spoken anything against Naveen Patnaik or BJD till date; he is targeting a concerned official, which can't be considered as anti-party activity," he added.
Rout further said that some political parties recently entered the residence of an official working in the Chief Minister's Office (CMO) alleging that he is the second power-centre in the party. However, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik is the only power-centre, he said.
"Naveen Patnaik will be criticised if he does something wrong and praised for doing right, after following someone's advice. It is the responsibility of the CM, so there is no second person," said Rout.
When asked if the resignation of Panda has boomeranged on BJD, Rout said that he is not in-charge of party affairs now and one should ask Jajpur MLA Pranab Prakash Das.
In response to a question if Das will be the next power-centre in BJD, Rout said, "Das is young; he understands business but is yet to understand politics. He has still not reached the first stage to become a power-centre."
Earlier in the day Opposition party chief whip & Congress leader, Tara Prasad Bahinipati said that BJD is repenting for not paying last tributes to noted industrialist late Bansidhar Panda, father of Baijayant.
"Bansidhar Panda was a noted industrialist and close to Biju Patnaik but none from BJD turned up to pay last tributes to him. Therefore the party is still silent on taking any action against Baijayant Panda," said Bahinipati.
He further alleged that BJD has a record of backstabbing others adding further that the party's attempt to target Baijayant Panda has boomeranged.
In response to the allegations, government chief whip and BJD leader Amar Satpathy said Congress should mind its own business rather than interfering in the affairs of BJD. The final decision in BJD will be taken by party supremo Naveen Patnaik and people will come to know about it, he added.
"A few years back there was a clash between police personnel and villagers at Maikanch village under Kashipur police station of Rayagada district where one villager died. Following uproar by the opposition, Justice PK Mishra Commission was formed and nearly Rs 12 lakh was spent on it, but none was found guilty in the report. Such is the way inquiry commissions function," said Rout.
He also raised suspicion that the ornaments in the Ratna Bhandar may have been stolen. Rout questioned the silence of Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingha Deb as he is one among the three persons who have the keys of the Ratna Bhandar, which consists of ornaments worth crores of rupees.
Three keys of Ratna Bhandar are with three persons - Puri Sankaracharya, Gajapati Maharaja and Bhandar Mekap. Anyone of them could embezzle the valuables inside Ratna Bhandar; then what will you do? Why is the Gajapati Maharaja still silent on the issue? questioned Rout.
On the other hand BJP spokesperson Pitambar Acharya said, “The State government is targeting the Gajapati Maharaja to hide its misdeeds. It is an example of the government’s inefficiency and will receive an adequate reply from people of Odisha in coming days."
Earlier in the day, senior BJP leader Bijay Mohapatra opined that the Ratna Bhandar should be opened again for audit of the ornaments. Puri Sankaracharya, Gajapati Maharaja, representatives of the State government or any prominent persons could be members of the committee to carry out the audit.
As an alternative, the government can also constitute a committee under the commission formed to probe the disappearance of Srimandir's Ratna Bhandar key, he added.
"CCTV cameras should be installed and the ornaments audited in presence of all the committee members to clear the suspicion in the minds of people," said Mohapatra.
He further added that nearly 98 per cent of the persons who had entered the Ratna Bhandar for audit in 1978 and 1985 are not alive and it will create a major hurdle in the probe. Therefore, audit of the ornaments inside Ratna Bhandar is necessary after completion of the Rath Yatra, he added.
Similarly, Leader of Opposition, Narasingha Mishra said, “There is a need of opening the Ratna Bhandar and check if the property is intact. The motive behind the judicial enquiry is to suppress the matter.”
“People believe that ornaments worth crores of rupees are stored inside the Ratna Bhandar. The keys of such a prominent place, which should be kept in strong room of the treasury, have gone missing. It proves the inefficiency of the authorities,” said vice president of Mukti Mandap Pandita Sabha, Ashok Mohapatra.
Ruling-BJD leader and former Agriculture minister Damodar Rout who was also a member of the inter-ministerial committee constituted by the Odisha government to implement the Odisha Landowners and Sharecroppers (Protection of Interest) Act, 2017 a few months back, has also questioned such a stance of the government.
[caption id="attachment_296327" align="alignnone" width="720"] Revenue Minister Maheswar Mohanty[/caption]
If the legislation is not prepared keeping in mind the rights of sharecroppers and the landlords then there is a possibility of an explosion. It's a sensitive issue. An inter-ministerial committee was constituted which said that they were not able to reach a conclusion. A sub-committee has also been constituted which has met several times. Hence, the state government will be careful and take a decision after discussions and advice.
- Maheswar Mohanty had said yesterday.
"Maximum farmers who are committing suicide are sharecroppers. For how long will people live on the assurances of the government. If we want to bring a change for farmers, then the sharecroppers legislation should be changed," said farmer leader, Ashok Pradhan.
Many believe that keeping in mind the upcoming elections, the state government has gone on a back foot to avoid the ire of landowners who are expected to be affected by the legislation. With the state government deciding to constitute another sub-committee citing that the inter-ministerial committee has failed to reach a consensus on the sharing pattern of agricultural produce, it is being alleged that in the name of more discussions, the government is deliberately trying to avoid implementation of the legislation.
[caption id="attachment_296328" align="alignnone" width="720"] Former Minister Damodar Rout[/caption]
The government is saying it will provide loans to sharecroppers, I don't know how they will do it. Again the State government has said that it will provide loans to landless farmers, I don't how that will be implemented when farmers don't have land.
- said Damodar Rout.
"The state government has betrayed the farmers. After giving assurances, the state government has broken its promises," said leader of Opposition, Narasingha Mishra.
"The State government confidently said that it will take cues from various states and formulate a legislation. To back out like this after making promises proves that the state government has betrayed the sharecroppers," said senior BJP Leader, Biswabhushan Harichandan.
Speaking in favour of his father, Sambit said it is unfortunate that the vast experience of his father is not being utilised.
"One will definitely get hurt if neglected. My father has experience of over 45 years and no one has more expertise than him (Damodar Rout). His experience must be utilised and it's unfortunate if it's not," said Sambit.
On Dama Rout not being invited to the review meeting of Paradeep Assembly Constituency which he represents, Sambit said he is unaware why his father was not made a part of the review meeting.
“I don't know whether he is attending any party meeting or he is getting any invitation. It's party's internal matter," he said.
Speaking on his political future, Sambit said that it depends on BJD president and his father.
"I had got opportunities in 2009 and also in 2014. But as my father was interested, so I didn't contest election. I always respect and give priority to my father's decision. I feel proud to be the son of Damodar Rout; my first identity is that I am his son," he added.
On the other hand, BJD spokesperson Debi Prasad Mishra said that he has spoken to Damodar Rout over the issue and the former minister is never neglected by the party.
"I asked Prasanna Acharya today morning why I am not being invited during discussions on Mahanadi and was not allowed to speak on the issue during the four-hour-long debate in Odisha Assembly," said Rout while lambasting the State government for its inaction on the issue.
"Our government is not being able to give proper attention to the resources as compared to other states. I know the people who draft schemes in our State have not seen Odisha properly," he added.
Rout further warned that there is a great threat looming over Mahanadi and the situation may worsen if immediate action is not taken.
"Is the campaign against Chhattisgarh enough to deal with the threat that Mahanadi is likely to face in future? We should be alert and take immediate and appropriate action. I am not saying it because of any personal grudge against anybody, but it is a fact. I have 45 years of political experience," he said.
He also revealed his indignation for not being invited by the Chief Minister during the review of his assembly constituency.
According to sources, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Monday during the review of Paradeep Assembly Constituency had not called Rout, who is the local MLA; but invited his son.
"I was not invited by the Chief Minister therefore I did not attend the meeting. Can the son of a MLA be his representative? My son has joined the party as a member but how can he tell about all the issues," said Rout.
The opposition members tried to corner Odisha government over the alleged rape and murder attempt on a six-year-old girl at Salepur who is now battling for life at pediatric ICU of SCB medical and rape of a 4-year-old girl in Kendrapara.
The Assembly witnessed several adjournments today as opposition parties demanded a reply from Odisha Chief Minister, Naveen Patnaik over the issue.
Both Congress and BJP legislators alleged that Odisha government has failed to act even as crime against women and rape of minor girls has assumed alarming proportions in the State.
“Small kids in the age group of 3 to 4 years are being raped and it clearly implies that there is no fear of law among the culprits and CM should break his silence on such issues,” said leader of opposition, Narasingha Mishra.
Newly appointed Odisha Pradesh Congress Committee (OPCC) chief Niranjan Patnaik too slammed the ruling-BJD on rape of minor girls in Odisha.
“Four cases of rapes against minor girls have been reported in 24 hrs in Odisha. There has been a 278% increase in crimes against women under BJD regime. If a Govt fails to protect its citizens from criminals, it has no right to continue in power,“ wrote Niranjan Patnaik on Twitter.
BJP legislator Radharani Panda said, “The rapists of minor children should be arrested and awarded death penalty.”
"There has been spurt in incidents of rape of minor girls in Odisha and the State government and police have failed to discharge their duties properly. We are demanding a reply from the Chief Minister in the House," said BJP MLA, Rabi Nayak.
As further embarrassment to Odisha government, senior ruling-BJD leader Damodar Rout expressed doubts over the working and efficiency of Odisha police on such issues.
“If administrative officials in Police department do not work properly, there is no point blaming or condemning ruling party leaders,” said Rout.
Government chief whip, Amar Satpathy on the other hand stated that “Police department is taking appropriate action against the culprits responsible for such heinous crimes.”
Meanwhile, SCB medical superintendent Shayama Kanungo today said that a 13-member doctors’ team is now engaged in the treatment of the Salepur survivor whose condition is still critical despite some improvements.
Rout said the legislators should be paid according to their work; receiving full pay for reduced proportion of work is not a good exercise. "The daily allowance to the MLAs should be paid on an hourly basis which must be determined on the hours of Odisha Assembly proceedings," he added.
Congress chief whip Tara Prasad Bahinipati appreciated the proposal and said, "It is not right to pay TA, DA to the legislators until proceedings of the House run smoothly. I welcome the proposal of no work, no pay."
BJP's legislature party leader Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo said his party will extend its support if such a proposal is introduced in the Odisha Assembly.
Earlier in the day, the Speaker had adjourned the House three times as Congress MLAs continued to disrupt the house proceedings while blaming the Puri temple administration for failing to restore normalcy in rituals of the deities. Bahinipati also warned that the party will not allow the House to function unless the government restores normalcy in rituals.
The first session was graced by Union Minister of State for Agriculture & Farmer Welfare Gajendra Singh Sekhawat. The minister addressed the gathering on topic Mission 2022: The Key Implications of MSP – Threats & Opportunities.
“Hike of the MSP cannot be State specific. The move cannot be a solution to increase income of farmers as input costs are also going up proportionately every year," the Union Minister said adding that collaboration between the State and Central government is necessary to double the income of farmers by 2022.
Sekhawat further stated, "If we increase MSP of our produce too such then our products will not be able to compete in international market. If we create an environment where our farmers get a scope to move into allied sectors also then they will have a parallel source of income.".
The second session featured a panel discussion on ‘Odia Language Beyond Literature.’ The session was addressed by noted Journalist Soumya Ranjan Patnaik, eminent writer Haraprasad Das and former vice chancellor of Ravenshaw University Devdas Chhotray.
Speaking on the occasion, eminent writer Haraprasad Das said, "There is way too much silence and lack of interactiveness which should change for the development of language and literature."
Noted journalist Soumya Ranjan Patnaik said, "There was no divergence between Odia language and literature earlier. But such gap has emerged due to lack of usage of Odia language."
Patnaik further stated that Odia language should be used more and more for progress and advancement of literature.
Former vice-chancellor, Ravenshaw University Devdas Chhotray said, "Odia literature is not as vast as Odia language."
In the afternoon session, Lok Sabha MPs Gaurav Gogoi & Kalikesh Narayan Singh Deo deliberated on: Making of Young Parliamentarians in Lok Sabha- Absence of Constructive Debates.
"We have some of the most constructive debates in Parliament, but what gets covered is disruption," said Gaurav Gogoi.
BJD MP Kalikesh Singh Deo while speaking on the occasion said, "Unfortunately the only business in Parliament is to authorize what the executive has decided. There is no scope for raising questions."
Kalikesh further said that anti-defection law should be changed to allow politicians to raise voice against things which they don’t like about their respective party.
Speaking on the topic 'Politics for Elections or Development & Growth' in the penultimate session of the convention, BJP's Suresh Pujari said that development has taken a back seat and have no problems accepting that politics has become election-centric.
"70 years have passed yet politicians have failed to make people aware of their rights. To win elections development and growth are being used as propaganda in politics," said senior BJD Leader Damodar Rout.
Congress leader Narasingha Mishra on the other hand stated that, "It's unfortunate that today politics is all about winning elections."
In the final session, Bollywood actors Tisca Chopra and Ashish Bidyarthi shared their views on – ‘Do Celebrities Make for Good Role Models.’
"Celebrities should not be emulated blindly in real life unless there is something inspiring," said actress Tisca Chopra.
Speaking on the occasion, eminent Bollywood actor Asish Vidyarthi said, "Celebrityhood is like a mirage, one should trying to find the amazing things which lies within oneself."
According to Vidyarthi, a professional actor is someone who will do anything to portray a particular character closely and yet live to do another role.
"We have to create awareness that celebrities should not be blindly followed because a lot of things about them are unreal,"he added.
Dama Rout's op-ed appeared in a local vernacular daily today with the headline 'introspection before protest,' which many felt was a veiled attack on Pandian.
“We also condemned the attack and so did different associations. But the members of those associations who are protesting must also think about their duties while raising their voices,” said Rout.
Rout said protesting the attack is the constitutional right of the bureaucrats but they should first be clear about the concerned official's honesty, discipline and integrity towards service rules and regulations.
The former minister opined that it is the duty of the bureaucrats to give advice and suggestions to the ministers and obey their orders. However, bureaucrats have started ignoring suggestions given by ministers which is regressive for development, he said.
When approached for comments, BJD leaders skilfully dodged questions on Rout’s statement.
Earlier, Rout had said that there is no harm in removing the bureaucrat (Pandian) on moral grounds if there are allegations against him citing that he was also removed from his ministerial post in a similar fashion.
As per the portal of the Registrar of Co-operative Society (http://coopodisha.gov.in/RegCoopSociety.html), Rout is still the Minister of Cooperation & Excise.
Moreover, the department's portal continues to name Manoj Ahuja as the Principal Secretary of the Cooperation department even though Ranjana Chopra took over charge two months back. (http://coopodisha.gov.in/index.html)
Even though the CM has been pushing his 3Ts - teamwork, transparency and technology - framework for better governance, this website which comes under the Cooperation department doesn't even gets updated timely for basic yet important information.
The current Cooperation Minister Surya Narayan Patro said that it is due to the negligence of the website development company. We will seek a report on the issue, he added.
Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has set precedent of removing people on moral grounds so there's nothing wrong in removing Pandian if there are allegations against him, said Rout adding that he was also removed from his ministerial post in a similar fashion.
"If there are allegations against an officer under him (CM), what is the problem in removing him even if the news are sponspored? I was also removed from my position over a communal issue," he said.
However, Rout condemned the attack on Pandian's residence saying that power has gone to the head of BJP.
In another development, Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan also lambasted Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik for trying to shield his private secretary VK Pandian.
While talking on the sidelines during campaigning for BJP's candidate for Bijepur bypoll today, Pradhan questioned why has the CM come in defence of his officer now while he had kept mum over similar incidents in the past.
“The Chief Minister and his party have condemned the attack but why was he silent during three similar incidents that had occurred in 2017. Why the Chief Minister and the officers' bodies were silent after mob ransacked the residence of IAS officer Rashmita Panda, Sanjay Singh and when few people stormed into the residence of the then Minister Damodar Rout," he said.
Without naming bureaucrats, Pradhan stated that those who are interested in politics should resign from their post and enter the field. He warned the bureaucrats not to get involved in politics while drawing salary from the hard earned money of people of Odisha. The assumption that they will not face any protest is wrong, he added.
However, the Union Minister also condemned the attack on Pandian’s residence saying, "Protest in a democratic system is not improper but some principles should be maintained. If some youth members of my party have done something illegal they should be punished as per law.
Earlier on Saturday, some members of the Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM) had ransacked the residence of Pandian. Shouting slogans against him, they barged into his residence, damaged flower pots and several bikes. They also threw cow dung on the wall and the main gate of the house.
Four BJP activists were arrested in connection with the attack and were booked under 10 sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) including section 307 (attempt to murder).
The arrested workers -Jugal Jyoti Swain, Rasmiranjan Muduli, Bibhuti Bhushan Prusty and Biswabhushan Badjena- were sent to Jharpada special jail after their bail petitions were rejected by SDJM court in Bhubaneswar.
Speaking on the sidelines of a function in Puri, Rout cited the example of Buxi Jagabandhu's rebellion against Britishers and hinted at a simmering revolt within BJD.
He stated, "When the Britishers came to India, the revolt did not start all of a sudden. It took some time to turn into a rebellion."
The former Minister further said, "Explosives have not been ready yet. Once explosion takes place who will be affected in what way will be known in coming days." However, he did not clarify which explosives he is referring to.
On MP Baijayant Panda's suspension from BJD, Rout replied that the decision of the party chief is final. Meanwhile, Rout's recent statement has created a flutter in the State party politics.
When asked about Kunduli suicide, Rout stated no one can deny the fact that the minor girl was gang raped and had demanded immediate arrest of the culprit.
"Dama Babu had said in Rayagada that the trail of corruption in Soil Conservation Department is spread till third floor which houses the CMO. That is the only reason for which he had to pay such a heavy price,” Pradhan had said.
Responding to this statement, Rout said, Dharmendra Pradhan is a Union Minister of BJP. But Odisha has BJD rule. "How will he know about the administrative proceedings in the State!” questioned Rout.
He denied giving any such remarks about corruption during his visit to Rayagada, saying, “Ministers hold discussions with officials of the department after district visits. Other than that I have not said anything to anyone or given any probe order.”
Rout said that he only inquired about the progress of the three departments - Agriculture, Soil Conservation and Horticulture - in presence of the ADM, Sub Collector and other officials.
“No such incident has occurred there and I cannot say if anyone has informed Dharmendra Babu about such happenings in the department,” he added.
The former Agriculture Minister further said, “A minister takes a vow of secrecy and does not disclose any decision taken or any order passed, before public. No such thing has happened in Rayagada that has any similarity with the statement of Pradhan.”
Earlier on Saturday, Pradhan said that if anyone from BJD raises a finger at the Chief Minister's Office (CMO), they bear the brunt.
Bhubaneswar: Tension prevailed at Sishu Bhawan square here as Brahmana Mahasangha intensified its protest against sacked Minister Damodar Rout demanding his ouster from Biju Janata Dal (BJD) for his derogatory remarks against Brahmin community.
The Brahmins who also demanded unconditional apology from the former minister are scheduled to take the rally to his residence. In view of any possible eventuality, security was tightened outside his official residence. Police also detained some protesters at Sishu Bhawan square during agitation.
Also Read: Sacked minister Damodar Rout’s wings further clipped
“Damodar Rout should get purified by shaving his head outside Srimandira and taking dip in Puri sea. He should also seek excuse by prostrating before Brahmins. Naveen Patnaik is the beloved leader of Odisha and he should immediately remove such a nasty politician from the party. We will continue our agitation until he is dismissed from the party. Rout will also face stiff protest from us during BJD’s foundation day to be observed in Puri,” said Mahasangha advisor Sriguru Sri Sitaram Satpathy.
Earlier in the morning, Minister Prafulla Samal visited Rout’s house. Samal clarified that he had discussed about the issue with him as the Observer of Jagatsinghpur district ahead of party’s foundation day. “He (Dama) is a senior leader of our party. As the Observer of his district, I discussed with him about foundation day. He is a disciplined leader of BJD. I hope he would never do anything which would hamper party’s interest,” Samal said.
Rout, who was sacked from the Council of Ministers on Friday for his casteist remark against Brahmins, was also relieved from the post of BJD vice president and Observer of Dhenkanal district yesterday.
The 75-year-old leader triggered sharp reaction across the State for remarks against Brahmins at a function on December 19 following which Brahmin Mahasangha was up in arms demanding his immediate removal from the Council of Ministers. Various Brahmin communities had staged demonstration at different places to press their demand.
https://youtu.be/6w4imtIEsiY
The development comes barely 24 hours after he was sacked as Agriculture Minister for his alleged casteist remarks against Brahmins. "The president of Biju Janata Dal (BJD) Naveen Patnaik has been pleased to relieve Dr. Damodar Rout from the post of vice-president, Biju Janata Dal as well as Observer of Dhenkanal district with immediate effect," a press release issued by the party stated.
Rout in reaction said he is least worried about the fresh development. "Minister and party vice president are both nominated posts. He (Naveen Patnaik) had nominated me as vice president. Now he lost confidence and removed me. There are many experienced office bearers like general secretaries and vice presidents having social status in the party. May be my sacking from Council of Ministers has undermined my eligibility to share stage with other ministers and office bearers which is why I have been relieved from all party posts. He may appoint other efficient leaders ahead of 2019 elections," he added.
Rout was in the eye of storm for his controversial remarks which had drawn flak. Brahmins of Mukti Mandap in Srimandira of Puri, servitors of Lingaraj temple and the Odisha Vedic Brahmana Parishad had held demonstrations against Rout in Puri and burnt his posters demanding his ouster from the Cabinet.
Addressing the inaugural function of the Malyabanta festival in Malkangiri on December 19, Rout had said that the tribals never beg..... Brahmins would beg when the situation arises.
“I strongly disapprove of anyone who makes derogatory remarks against any caste, creed or religion. I have dismissed Damodar Rout from the council of ministers. A letter has been sent this evening to the Governor to accept this dismissal,” said Naveen.
Also Read: Dama Rout seeks apology for his ‘beggar’ remarks on Brahmins
Damodar Rout has been in the eye of the storm for his ‘beggar’ remarks on Brahmins at a function in Malkangiri on December 19.
Dama who was reportedly attending a function in his constituency while the decision was announced, said “Whatever happened, happened. Where is the problem in that? I have no qualms.”
After arriving in Bhubaneswar, Dama addressed mediapersons and said, “There is nothing to feel bad about. I was voted to the Legislative Assembly by the people of my constituency to look after their demands. The CM chose me to help him in his administration. After me, the CM will choose someone else. But I will continue to work for my constituency and there is nothing to feel bad about.”
Upon being asked, did the Chief Minister inform him about his dismissal, Damodar Rout said, "He had called me while I was travelling. As the voice was inaudible I told him that I will talk with him after returning to Bhubaneswar."
Following Damodar Rout's dismissal from Council of Ministers, Panchayati Raj Minister Pradeep Maharathy was given additional charge of Agriculture, Fisheries and Animal Resources departments while Finance Minister Shashi Bhusan Behera got additional charge of Public Enterprises department.
Commenting on Dama Rout’s dismissal, Deputy Chairman of the State Planning Board, Bishnu Das said, “There was a delay on the part of the CM to take the decision. However, the people of Odisha will welcome the decision.”
https://youtu.be/v6Bf7ZfMt8g
The activists submitted a written complaint to the Town police here alleging that the Minister is trying to mislead people by giving such derogatory remarks.
The group of Brahmins also warned that they will oppose the Minister's scheduled visit to the pilgrim town on December 26. Besides, restriction will be imposed on his attendance at various meetings in Puri in the future, stated an activist.
Earlier in the day, the Minister had sought an apology for his remarks through a video posted on social media.
It may be mentioned here that Rout, during an event in Malkangiri recently, had stated that tribals never ask for anything; rather Brahmins beg for alms, if situation arises. The statement did not go well with the Brahmin community in Puri who later staged a protest here demanding his suspension.
Rout posted a video on his Facebook page saying, he is sorry for insulting Brahmins and that the meaning of his words was changed .
"The Brahmins belong to the upper caste in our religion. We respect them and provide them with alms during need as begging is their tradition. I have not insulted the Brahmins, but have said they are a superior caste, their blessing is a virtue. Therefore, we provide them with alms to earn virtue. Our culture instructs us to respect them. Am I not a part of the culture? The wrong message has spread because of political reasons," said Rout.
It may be mentioned here that Rout, while attending a function in Malkangiri recently, stated that tribals never ask for anything; rather Brahmins beg for alms, if situation arises.
Protesting his remarks, a group of Brahmins staged a protest against Minister Rout in Puri on Wednesday demanding his suspension. The activists under the banner of Odisha Vedic Brahmana Parisad and Mukti Mandap Brahman Mahasabha staged a demonstration by burning effigies of the Minister. They had also warned that they would intensify their protest in coming days.
https://youtu.be/Av1lm88FJXU
Bhubaneswar: Minister Damodar Rout, who is known for his off-the-cuff remarks, has once again landed in controversy for his 'beggar' remarks on Brahmins.
Protesting his remarks, a group of Brahmins staged a protest against Minister Rout in Puri today demanding his suspension. The activists under the banner of Odisha Vedic Brahmana Parisad and Mukti Mandap Brahman Mahasabha staged a demonstration by burning effigies of the Minister. They also warned that they would intensify their protest in coming days.
On the other hand, Minister Rout refused to apologize for his remarks and said, "I have not committed any mistake. Hence, there is no question of seeking apology. A few politicians are making an issue out of it for their own interest."
He further questioned in a sarcastic tone if what Puri Brahmins accept is alms or is that tax.
It may be mentioned here that Rout, while attending a function in Malkangiri recently, stated that tribals never ask for anything; rather Brahmins beg for alms, if situation arises. The statement has triggered strong resentment among the priest community.
https://youtu.be/J13GTvvUBYY
In written reply to a question, Rout stated out of the 16 farmers who had allegedly committed suicide in the financial year 2016-17, 12 had loans outstanding. Similarly, eight out of the 14 farmers who allegedly committed suicide during the period April 2017 till date, had taken loans.
As per the report, in the current financial year most farmer deaths were reported from Bargarh. Six farmers had committed suicide in the district, out of which three had taken loan for agricultural purposes.
One each among the three deceased farmers in Ganjam and two farmers in Sambalpur, who have committed suicide during this period, had also availed loan for cultivation.
Besides, three farmers, who committed suicide, one each in Dhenkanal, Jajpur & Rayagada districts, had also taken loans, read the report.
Rout also said that share-croppers in the State might be committing suicides due to exploitation by the land owners as even during crop loss they are under the obligation to give a certain amount of their produce to the land owner.
"In some places share-croppers are cultivating land of other persons with an agreement to give five to seven quintals of produce per acre. He is bound to give the agreed amount of produce even during crop loss. Farmers could be committing suicide due to such exploitation," said the Minister.
In a bid to check such exploitation, the government has announced agriculture input subsidy to the share-croppers or the actual cultivators, he added.
Also Read: Odisha consistently ranks among top in attracting investments: Naveen
While the State government had earlier denied any links of farmer deaths with crop loss and loan burden; it became opposition’s target after the Agriculture minister revealed the stats.
"They should accept farmer suicides and admit the reasons rather than presenting various false reports. At least, they agreed farmers had taken loans," said Congress MLA Nabakishore Das.
A farmer could not have committed suicide without any pressure or despair; the truth will come to the fore one day, he added.
Earlier on November 29, in a written reply to a question of Congress MLA Bhujabal Majhi, Rout had said a total of 11 farmer suicide cases and seven alleged ones were probed in 2016-17 and 2017-18, respectively. However, the probe report mentions no deaths related to farming issues, Rout had maintained.
https://youtu.be/6YibPRAv65c
"Homage to great revolutionary & freedom fighter Saheed Jayee Rajguru on death anniversary. The fearless patriot who gave his life to the motherland lives in the hearts of all countrymen," tweeted Patnaik from his official twitter handle.
ସ୍ବାଧୀନତା ଆନ୍ଦୋଳନର ପ୍ରଥମ ଓଡ଼ିଆ ସହିଦ ଜୟୀ ରାଜଗୁରୁଙ୍କ ଶ୍ରାଦ୍ଧ ବାର୍ଷିକରେ ଭକ୍ତିପୂତ ଶ୍ରଦ୍ଧାଞ୍ଜଳି।
Homage to great revolutionary & freedom fighter Saheed Jayee Rajguru on death anniversary. The fearless patriot who gave his life to the motherland lives in the hearts of all countrymen. pic.twitter.com/PB8iY5S441— Naveen Patnaik (@Naveen_Odisha) December 6, 2017
However, Rout refused to agree with the Chief Minister saying one cannot prove history as false.
"A book has been published on what the historians have written and been approved by the government in 1948 after Harekrushna Mahatab became the Chief Minister of Odisha. None can claim the history as false," said Rout.
Also Read: Delay in Odisha govt approvals led to tardy progress of 2nd Brahmani bridge: Gadkari
Earlier on November 29, Puri Gajapati Maharaj Dibyasingha Deb had also disapproved Rout’s claim that Jayee Rajguru was not a freedom fighter. He said that Paika Bidroha was launched under the leadership of Jayee Rajguru in 1804. It was taken forward by Buxi Jagabandhu and spread further. Therefore, the initial flag bearer of the Paika Bidroha is Jayee Rajguru and it started in 1804, not in 1817.
The Gajapati's statement had came as a reiteration after Rout, on November 24, had stated that the first war of Independence against the British Raj took place in 1817 instead of 1804 and Buxi Jagabandhu, not Jayee Rajguru, was the initial flag bearer of the rebellion. Jayee Rajguru fought with Britishers as the latter went back on their promise to give him two Parganas.
https://youtu.be/uQX5wOf5XhY
In a written reply to a question of Congress MLA Bhujabal Majhi, the minister said a total of 11 farmer suicide cases and seven alleged ones were probed in 2016-17 and 2017-18, respectively. However, the probe report mentions no death related to farming issues.
However, ground realities support the contrary. Family of deceased farmer Hadu Bagarti in Kendpali village of Bargarh district still claims Hadu’s crop on 4.5 acre land was damaged due to lack of irrigation because of a power failure in the area.
"He was under mental stress due to crop loss therefore he committed suicide. The government reports are false," said Hadu's son Ananta Bagarti.
On the other hand, the Agriculture Minister stated in the Assembly that the cause of Hadu's death was not crop loss due to power failure but it was something else.
Similarly, as per the government report, the suicide of Basu Hembram, a farmer of Lembupala village under Kamakhyanagar block of Dhenkanal district, was not because of crop loss or loan burden but family dispute.
Further, the suicide of Brundaban Swain of Nuagaon under Aska block of Ganjam district was also not due to crop loss stated the report submitted in the Assembly. Interestingly, even after eight months, the reason behind Swain's death is still a mystery. The government is still waiting for his post-mortem report.
Not only these three, out of all the farmers who have committed suicide in the last two years, the government claims that not a single death was due to crop loss.
Opposition parties have criticised the government and said the report has been manipulated by the State government to save itself.
"I will term the report as unfortunate. A Collector and SP will never accept a farmer suicide; if the government is not accepting it why will they? We demand that if the government has courage it should conduct a judicial inquiry," said BJP MLA Pradeep Purohit.
Also Read: Puri Gajapati disapproves of Dama’s comments on Jayee Rajguru
"Even though farmers of Odisha are committing suicides and dying a pitiful death, this government is claiming that farmers have not committed suicide. Nothing is more condemnable and shameful. Why is the government not accepting it?" said Opposition party Chief Whip and Congress Leader, Tara Prasad Bahinipati.
In reply, Rout refuted the allegations and said, "Other than quoting the probe reports submitted to me by the district administration, I don't have any other option. And if you do not believe it and term it as politically motivated and allege that the government is hiding the facts, I cannot answer that."
https://youtu.be/IRdA3OiAMPI
The Gajapati reiterated his earlier statement and said, "Paika Bidroha was launched under the leadership of Jayee Rajguru in 1804. It was taken forward by Buxi Jagabandhu and spread further. Therefore, the initial flag bearer of the Paika Bidroha is Jayee Rajguru and it started in 1804, not in 1817."
In response, Rout said Gajapati is the first servitor of Lord Jagannath and challenging his statement is not right. However, he asked a few questions to the Gajapati.
"It will be nice if Gajapati Maharaj conducts a research on why did the Britishers, who had made Calcutta their Capital in 1603, take 200 years to come to Odisha and if they came, how did they arrive," said Rout.
Earlier on November 24, Rout had stated that the first war of independence against the British Raj took place in 1817 instead of 1804 and Buxi Jagabandhu, not Jayee Rajguru, was the initial flag bearer of the rebellion. Jayee Rajguru fought with Britishers as the latter went back on their promise to give him two Parganas, he had added.
“Paika Bidroha, the first freedom struggle, had taken place in 1817 and therefore, Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan celebrated the 200th anniversary of the mutiny this year. This shows that Centre considers Buxi Jagabandhu-led Paika Bidroha as the first freedom struggle which began in 1817 after Jayee Rajguru’s death,” said Dama.
Adding further Dama said, "Undoubtedly Jayee Rajguru was a great personality and the torch bearer of the Jagannath cult. However, he was not a freedom fighter."
The Dr BC Roy Committee also stated Jayee Rajguru was not a freedom fighter, instead he fought with the Britishers as the latter went back on their promise to give him two Parganas, Dama elaborated.
Supporting Dama, BJD’s Bhubaneswar MP Prasanna Patsani, said, "Rout's remarks are being misinterpreted and he has not said anything wrong."
https://youtu.be/bYnns9NH14g
While addressing the Khurda Lok Mahotsav last evening, Rout said Paika Bidroha, the first war of independence against the British Raj, took place in 1817 instead of 1804 and Buxi Jagabandhu, not Jayee Rajguru, was the initial flag bearer of the battle.
The BJD leader said Rajguru fought with Britishers as the latter went back on their promise to give him two Parganas.
“The Britishers had promised Rajguru to give him two Parganas. But since they did not keep their word after possessing the province of Odisha, Rajguru fought with Britishers in 1804. But the British had suppressed him. The battle fought by Buxi Jagabandhu in 1817 was the actual fight against the Britishers,” the Minister said.
Rout further stated that during his tenure as Culture Minister, he had formed a committee headed by eminent historian BC Roy to write the history of the freedom struggle of Odisha. The committee had mentioned that Jayee Rajguru fought with the Britishers as they went back on their promise to give him two paraganas, he added.
Recently, Puri Gajapati Maharaj had stated that the Paika Bidroha against the British Raj was launched under the leadership of Jayee Rajguru in 1804 instead of 1817 and Buxi Jagabandhu had later taken it forward.
“Since the Chief Minister has instructed that November 25 is the deadline for submitting the detail crop damage report, I reviewed the matter in this connection. But I found negligence on part of agriculture department officials who have not carried out field visit in Chhatrapur block in Ganjam district during a review after receiving complaints from locals,” Patro said.
“Later on, I reprimanded them and asked them to ensure submission of the damage report. This apart, I have written a letter to the agriculture department apprising it of the issue,” Patro said.
On the other hand, Agriculture Minister Damodar Rout has passed the buck saying that since Patro had handled Revenue department earlier, he should know that crop loss assessment report is prepared by revenue department officials like RI, Tehsildar in presence of agriculture officials.
Earlier, Patro had informed that over 1.5 lakh tonne of Kharif paddy has been procured till date from various districts like Bargarh, Sambalpur, Kalahandi, Sonepur, Bolangir. But in coastal districts like Ganjam, paddy collection has not been done except Malkangiri.
“Since the state witnessed rains last week so there are chances of lowering in Fair Average Quality (FAQ) of the standing paddy crops. We need a report from the agriculture department so that we can send a report to the Centre for changing the ratio of FAQ from the present 17 percent,” Patro had said.
https://youtu.be/S6MnCDGBBQY
Rout further said when the Collector questioned the family members of the deceased farmer they said that Sahu had not taken any bank loans for farming. Besides, he had multiple accounts in different banks.
“On October 31, Sahu ate breakfast, and later visited his farmland and set the crops on fire. The family members came to know about the incident only from TV,” said Rout.
Sahu had cultivated paddy in 16 acres of farmland of which six acres were damaged due to the pest attack, Rout said, adding that the farmer had torched crops in 18 decimal land.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik today chaired a review meeting on crop loss and farmer issues at the State Secretariat.
The State’s Agriculture department submitted a memorandum to Union Minister of State for Agriculture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat seeking a financial package of Rs 1713.75 lakh.
For establishment of a regional pesticide testing centre and crop pest surveillance, Odisha has sought Rs 785.50 crore, Rs 594.96 crore for Fisheries and Animal Resources, Rs 320 crore for Water Resources department, Rs 5.40 lakh for OUAT and Rs 7.89 crore for the Odisha Agro Industries Corporation.
Agriculture Secretary Saurabh Garg stated, “We hope to get a positive response from the Centre soon.”
Earlier in the day, Rout said, “Shekhawat’s claim that the State government had not informed the Centre is not true.”
He alleged that the BJP is only playing politics over farmer issues in the State.
Refuting the charges, BJP legislature party leader KV Singh Deo said, “The situation aggravated only because of the lackadaisical attitude of the State government. The Centre never wants to violate the State’s rights.”
https://youtu.be/xSnnSiciBvU
“The farmers have used Thaimate pesticides due to lack of proper communication. I was surprised to know that many farmers have used Thaimate and similar pesticides that helps in spreading Brown Plant Hopper pest,” said Shekhawat.
Reacting to his statement, BJD leader Subash Singh questioned the basis of his claim. “When did the Union Minister turn into a research scholar, which committee has provided him the report? A team of scientists must provide the report whether the pesticide is apt or not,” said Singh.
Shekhawat during his visit to Bargarh district went to Kalapani village to meet the family of deceased farmer Brunda Sahu, who had committed suicide on November 1 allegedly over crop loss due to pest attack. After hearing about Brunda from his two daughters, Shekhawat discussed with local administration on steps to extend support to the family members of the deceased.
Reacting on Shekhawat's visit to Brunda's house, Odisha Agriculture Minister Damodar Rout said the Union Minister visited may be because the deceased farmer was a supporter of his party.
"Brunda may be a member of his party. So the Union Minister visited his house. Why should I visit as he does not belong to my party? A probe has been ordered on Brunda's death. A high-level probe on the reasons and the circumstances behind his suicide is underway. The government is deciding on the kind of support to be provided to his family," said Rout.
The reaction of Rout did not go down well with Brunda's family members. Such statements from a Minister are uncalled for, said Brunda Sahu’s daughter Preeti Sahu.
"We are still mourning my father's death. We are a family of farmers and we do not belong to any party. It is his duty to visit us and being a minister of the State government such statements do not suit him," said Preeti.
She even said that various political parties are visiting them and giving them assurance but her family is yet to receive any assistance.
Similarly, BJP MLA Pradeep Purohit reacted to the Agri minister saying “If Damodar Rout has data that Brunda Sahu is of BJP based on which he decided not to visit his home, let him calculate the number of farmers belonging to BJP, BJD and Congress and work for the farmers of his party. I criticise such cheap politics promoting division within the farming community.”
Shekhawat's remarks came after Odisha agriculture minister Damodar Rout had recently accused BJP and its central leaders for intervening in the matters of the state.
Asked on Minister Damodar Rout's comments on 'unauthorized entry' of the central team into the State, Shekhawat stated, "As the Centre provides major chunk of financial aid to States on account of agriculture, it holds review meetings regularly for better coordination. Therefore, there is no need hold prior meetings with any State ahead of any spot visit."
He added the Centre is answerable to the people of the country irrespective any region, class or creed.
After a preliminary review meeting, the Union Minister accused the Odisha government of not waking up to the present agriculture crisis that has assumed serious proportions here.
"I will meet the families of deceased farmers who have committed suicide in Bargarh district. Besides, I will vist Ganjam along with Dierctor General of the Indian Council for Agricultural Reserach (ICAR) for assessing the ground situation," Shekhawat added.
A high-level committee led by the Union Minister today arrived at Bhubaneswar airport earlier to take stock of the drought situation and pest menace in Odisha.
Shekhawat is also scheduled to visit Boudh and Sonepur districts after holding discussion with officials of the Central Rice Research Institute (CRRI) during his visit to the State.
https://youtu.be/oHgqe_Z-qsY
Though police officials had been deployed outside Rout's residence, they failed to stop the agitation as five activists of the Sangathan broke open the main gate and barged inside. However, the SI on duty, Jambeswar Muduli has been suspended for breach in security.
According to sources, the youth activists earlier in the day staged a demonstration at the Lower PMG square here in Bhubaneswar over the recent deaths of farmers and amendment of agriculture relief code and demanded to implement laws for sharecroppers.
This apart, the Sangathan has demanded to remove the Agriculture Minister from his post and arrest him, sources said.
As per latest reports, police have arrested the five activists of the Sangathan and taken them into custody.
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The reaction came after Rout's statement that the farmers who have suffered more than 33 per cent crop loss due to pests or any natural calamity will get compensation but those who have burnt their crops will not be given any assistance.
Speaking to OTV, Preeti said that being the Agriculture Minister of the State it is disgraceful on his part to make such comments.
"For an Agriculture Minister of the State such remarks are very irresponsible and he should resign. We knew that administration is not going to help us. If at all they wanted to help they would have done it earlier and farmer suicides would have stopped."
Rout’s announcement was also criticised by Odisha BJP President Basant Panda who termed it as an insensible decision.
Panda alleged that the death of farmer Brunda Sahu is a murder committed by the ruling government rather than a suicide.
"Farmers in the State are suffering but the government is ignorant about it. Such a policy is an insult to democracy," he added.
https://youtu.be/PNr-XV4iQNo
Speaking to media here on Saturday, Rout said the farmers who have suffered more than 33 per cent crop loss due to pest or any natural calamity will get compensation but those who have burnt their crops cannot be given the same.
“How can they be given the compensation? If there will be no crop in the fields, how can the officials estimate the loss,” questioned Rout.
On the alleged suicide of Bargarh district farmer Brunda Sahu, the minister said an investigation is required to know the reason behind his suicide like why did he consume poison in presence of several people a day after burning his crops, does the land belong to him or was he a share cropper. Besides, we have to check whether he has taken loan from bank, he said.
No farmer faces financial issues, especially during this period. They may be in distress but that doesn’t mean they have nothing to eat, added Rout.
Also Read: Bargarh farmer suicide: Collector submits report to State Govt
The minister said that the government is not responsible if farmers take loan from private lenders, as it is giving loans to them- without any mortgage and even not recovering the amount from them.
"Farmers of Odisha never commit suicide as they are well aware that their family will suffer after their death. An investigation is needed to know the truth behind the burning of crops and suicides," stated the BJD veteran adding that a high level meeting comprising the chief secretary, agriculture commissioner and others will be held to discuss on the report submitted by the Bargarh district collector today.
Besides, Rout informed that the government will soon start disbursing Rabi loans to farmers.
On the other hand, the Sambalpur district collector Samarth Verma has said that 28,200 hectares of agricultural land have been affected by pests in the region.
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The incidents of burning of crop fields continue in the State. A farmer of Sankujendri village under Ramanaguda block in Gunupur, Rayagada, set afire his pest-affected crops in one acre of agricultural land. Similarly, a farmer of Bandigaon in Dharmagad block in Kalahandi district torched his pest-affected crops in four acres of agricultural field.
Meanwhile, a farmer of Sankhemundi village Alaya Jena, who consumed pesticide due to alleged crop loss on Friday, died today while undergoing treatment at Berhampur hospital in Ganjam district.
https://youtu.be/nVSqXXaHWXs
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Earlier on Friday, Collector Khagendra Kumar Padhi along with SP Jugal Kishore Banoth visited the family members of the Brunda Sahu.
On Thursday, a three-member team of the district administration led by the Tehsildar visited both the house and the farm land of Sahu for an on-the-spot inquiry. Later, Agriculture Minister Damodar Rout had sought an inquiry report from the district Collector.
It may be mentioned here that Sahu had committed suicide by consuming poison in his farm land on Wednesday after setting his pest-infested crops on fire on the previous day. The incident has triggered political outcry and blame game in the state. Leaders of various political parties and farmers' outfits are frequently visiting the family members of the deceased farmer.
Meanwhile, the Congress blamed both the state government and Centre for the incident and demanded Rs 20 lakh compensation to the family of the deceased.
https://youtu.be/Bk0ZEmlDCAY