In a statement issued on September 7, Com. Kunal, Bihar State Secretary of the CPI(ML), has expressed serious concern over the worsening drought in North Bihar and demanded that the state government immediately declare the region as drought-affected. The severe shortage of rainfall has badly affected paddy transplantation, putting the livelihoods of millions of farmers at risk.
CPIML noted that farmers are facing a double crisis due to the government’s inaction. While water scarcity is affecting crops, there is also a severe shortage of urea fertiliser. In areas where urea is available, it is being hoarded and sold at exorbitant prices. Farmers are being forced to purchase urea from the black market at several times the normal cost.
CPIML has demanded that North Bihar be declared a drought-affected region without delay and that relief be provided to affected farmers. CPIML also called for adequate supply of urea across all districts and strict monitoring to prevent hoarding and black marketing. The party also demanded strict action against those involved in urea black marketing and urged the government to announce loan waivers, irrigation support, and special relief packages for affected farmers.
CPIML stated that it will raise this issue vigorously through its elected representatives and farmer organisations and, if necessary, mobilise protests on the streets to ensure farmers receive the relief they deserve.
