BJP targeting me despite sharing Centre’s view on farm loan waiver: Dama Rout

Bhubaneswar: Odisha Agriculture minister Damodar Rout today said that he is being targeted by the Odisha BJP even though he is of the same opinion as Union Agriculture minister Radha Mohan Singh, who has understood the reality that farm loans cannot be waived.

“It is a welcome decision as the Union minister has understood the real problems. The RBI is also of the same view. However, when I am saying it, Odisha BJP is targeting me,” said Dama.

Dama alleged that the State unit of BJP is unnecessarily targeting him to settle scores. Speaking to mediapersons Dama said that he has always uttered the truth and if that puts him in harm’s way then there is nothing to be flustered about.

Senior BJP leader Pradip Purohit countered Dama’s allegation saying “Loan waiver for Odisha farmers is a state subject and it has nothing to do with others. Dama is criticising BJP just to be in the good books of CM and BJD president Naveen Patnaik.”