Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Thursday disapproved Cooperation Minister Damodar Rout's statement that farmers are using agricultural loans to consume alcohol.
"I don't think it is correct," the Chief Minister told reporters after holding a review meeting with the party workers here.
Meanwhile, Rout on Thursday took a U-turn over his previous remarks. The minister clarified that he did not say that farmers are buying liquor with agricultural loans.
"I have not said the farmers are utilising the loan for consuming alcohol. Rather, they are deprived of availing loan which I have been demanding since long. But the landlords are indulging in amusement with loan money by consuming liquor and marrying off their daughters," Rout stated.
On the other hand, the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) did not let go the chance to take a dig at the minister. The party has demanded an unconditional apology.
"It is an insult to the entire state and farming community. He (Rout) should tender an unconditional apology and withdraw his statement," said Odisha BJP president Basant Panda.
--IANS
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