PDS quota cut: Odisha’s ruling BJD to launch state-wide agitation from Apr 10

Odisha Sun Times Bureau
Bhubaneswar, Apr 8:

In protest against reduction in kerosene quota by Centre, the ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD) today announced to launch state-wide agitation across Odisha from Monday.

Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Minister Sanjay Das Burma today held a press conference here where he announced to hold protests at several places across the state.

“It is unfortunate that kerosene quota has been restricted on various grounds. I appeal to the Centre to restore the quota immediately as per the requirement. Besides, increase the supply of non-PDS kerosene to beneficiaries who are not covered under the National Food Security Act,” Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare Minister Sanjay Das Burma said.

The party would hold demonstration in front of Raj Bhawan on Monday to draw Centre’s attention. On the following day, it would hold demonstration before RDC office in Berhampur. The day after it would hold protest rally in front of RDC office in Sambalpur.

On the other hand, the Opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has hit out at the minister alleging his involvement in kerosene embezzlement.

“Food Supplies and Consumer Welfare has been involved in looting and black-marketing of kerosene. When he got exposed, he as the president of Biju Yuva Janata Dal would hit the streets. Odisha people will give a fitting reply to this drama,” state unit BJP vice president Sameer Mohanty said.