Naba Nirman Krushak Sangathan protests exploitation, demands Rs 5000 pension

The members of Naba Nirman Krushak Sangathan (NNKS) took out a massive rally from Master Canteen square in Bhubaneswar alleging exploitation by Tata Power, on Monday.

According to sources, the agitating members also demanded electricity bill waiver and Rs 5,000 pension for them.

A scuffle also broke out between farmers of NNKS and police in the State capital after the protestors attempted to gherao State Legislative Assembly, sources informed.

“We are fed up with the exploitation by Tata Power. So we are here just to caution the government. The Tata Power should be removed and like Andhra and Telangana, farmers in the state should be provided electricity free of cost,” Akshay Kumar, the convenor of the body demanded.

The agitating farmers’ body also threatened to intensify their protest if their demands are not met at the earliest.

“We will intensify our protest across Odisha and the government will be responsible for this. If our demands are not met, then farmers will get their new government,” Kumar added.

“This is just a trailer. We will eliminate the government from power if our demands are not fulfilled. The Tata Power is exploiting the farmers,” said an agitating member.

Expressing resentment, another protestor said, “The government privatised the power sector which is very important. While other states are proving electricity to farmers free of cost, most villages in Odisha suffer due to power cuts. There is a nexus between Odisha government and Tata Power.”

(Reported by Chandan Paikray, OTV)