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BJD leader Lekhashree Samantsinghar and Food Supplies Minister Krushna Chandra Patra
Politics intensified in Odisha over the death of two women allegedly after consuming mango kernel at Mandipanka village under the Daringbadi block of Odisha’s Kandhamal district. Six others were critical for the same reason.
Taking note of the incident, the Opposition BJD has demanded the resignation of Food Supplies Minister Krushna Chandra Patra.
As per the allegations of BJD, the public distribution system has completely collapsed in the State.
“The Food Supplies Minister should resign first. Moreover, stringent action should be taken against the culprits including the Chief Minister’s office, Kandhamal Collector and other officials within 15 days as the system collapsed completely and rice could not be provided to the poor people,” said BJD leader Lekhashree Samantsinghar.
In response, Food Supplies Minister Krushna Chandra Patra refuted the allegations.
According to Minister Patra, rice has been distributed in advance for the month of July, August and September and hence the allegations that they consumed mango kernel as they didn’t have rice is wrong.
The Minister further said that Chief Minister Mohan Majhi has already ordered an RDC probe into the incident and those who are demanding my resignation don’t have the moral authority to do so.
“Rice has already been provided for the month of July, August and September. Currently, rice is being distributed for the month of October, November and December. We are providing rice for three months at one go,” said Food Supplies Minister Krushna Chandra Patra.
“As the opposition party, BJD is demanding my resignation. However, people had died by eating mango kernel during their tenure. The tribals have been consuming mango kernel as their traditional food practice. The death occurred due to food poisoning and the Health department has already given its report in this regard. They didn’t die due to a shortage of rice. BJD don’t have the moral authority to ask me for my resignation. Giving resignation is not a big deal, but the right message should reach people,” the Minister added.