Paddy procurement: Farmers’ protests force CM into action

The Chief Minister spoke to top officials after receiving information about incidents of issues being created for farmers across the State and the ongoing protests.

Hyderabad: With farmers staging protests across the State against the government’s failure to procure paddy, Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy on Monday directed the officials to take stringent action against those who were stalling the procurement process.

He also directed the authorities to initiate action under the Essential Services Maintenance Act (ESMA), if need be, against such persons, including traders.

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The Chief Minister spoke to top officials after receiving information about incidents of issues being created for farmers across the State and the ongoing protests.

“Initiate strict action against incidents like cheating, misleading and harassing the farmers during paddy procurement,” Revanth Reddy said to officials.

The Chief Minister also suggested the District Collectors to take appropriate measures to ensure smooth procurement across the State. If any problem arises, district authorities should contact higher officials and address the issues immediately, he added.