India, Feb. 9 -- Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik has written to Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, accusing the state government of failing to protect farmers' interests during the ongoing paddy procurement season.

News Aggregation Service In his letter, Patnaik flagged what he described as widespread harassment of farmers at mandis across Odisha. He alleged that illegal deductions, locally known as Katni Chhatni, are continuing despite assurances of hassle-free procurement. According to him, farmers are facing arbitrary cuts of 5 to 7 kg per quintal in the name of moisture content or quality, which he said is happening openly in several districts with the alleged involvement of millers and local officials.

The former chief m...