Bargarh: A farmer, on agitation before the Bargarh District Collectorate today attempted suicide by consuming poison.
The incident occurred when hundreds of farmers including the victim - Akur Bishi of Kanbar village under Barpali block were staging an agitation demanding compensation for crop loss.
Alleging that paddy crop in many areas of the block has been damaged due to Nor'wester, the protestors were demanding financial assistance to compensate the losses.
All of a sudden, Bishi took out a bottle of poison and consumed it in front of the crowd. Although he was rushed to the Burla hospital, his condition is stated to be critical, said sources.
“The matter will be probed and action will be taken as per the provisions of the State government,” said Agriculture Minister Pradeep Maharathy.