Opposition BJP today voiced grave concern in the Uttar Pradesh Assembly over major damage to rabi crops in the state due to untimely rains and hailstorm and staged walkout after being dissatisfied with the government's response.
Raising the matter vociferously during Question Hour and later during Zero Hour, Suresh Kumar Khanna (BJP) claimed that nine farmers have either committed suicide or died of heart attack after their standing crops suffered heavy losses.
Untimely rains and hailstorm have lashed vast swathes of agricultural land in the state since February 28.
"Almost 40 to 50 per cent of crops have been damaged and as per reports, nine farmers have either committed suicide or died of heart attack in districts like Mahoba, Hathras, Amethi, Hamirpur and Unnao because of shock over the massive losses," Khanna said, demanding admission of his adjournment notice in this regard.
Asking government to show some sensitivity, he said rules to assess the crop loss need to be relaxed in order to provide immediate relief to those affected.
Some members from RLD, BSP and BJP demanded suspension of revenue realisation and waiver of loans.
Leader of the Opposition Swami Prasad Maurya said Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav should make an announcement in the House. Yadav was not present at that time.
