Karnal farmers accuse arhtiyas of exploitation, BKU demands probe

Days after the paddy procurement season concluded, farmers have accused arhtiyas (commission agents) of exploiting them. They alleged they were being forced to sell their paddy at rates between Rs 2,100 and ₹2,200 per quintal on the pretext of moisture content and other quality issues, despite the government setting the minimum support price (MSP) at Rs 2,320 per quintal.

Farmers claimed that commission agents colluded with rice millers to procure paddy at these reduced rates, effectively taking undue advantage of them. The government, however, deposited payments at the MSP rate of Rs 2,320 directly into the farmers' accounts.

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Several farmers have alleged that commission agents who bought paddy at reduced rates of Rs 2,100-2,200 per quintal are now forcing them to return the "differential amount" from the MSP of Rs 2,320 per quintal paid via DBT

District Marketing Enforcement Officer Saurabh Choudhary said market committee secretaries had already been instructed last month to prevent any deductions from farmers' payments. “If any farmer faces issues, they can file a complaint. We will take prompt action," he said

Farmers alleged arhtiyas had issued procurement slips with rates below the MSP during the procurement process. Now, they are reportedly asking farmers to return the "excess" amount credited into their accounts. The Bhartiya Kisan Union (Sir Chhotu Ram) has demanded a thorough investigation into the matter and strict action against those involved.

“My brother received a procurement slip showing Rs 2,200 per quintal for his paddy. However, the government credited the MSP of Rs 2,320 into his account. He is now being asked to return the Rs 120 difference,” said Bahadur Mehla, spokesperson of BKU (Sir Chhotu Ram).

Mehla said his brother’s case was not an isolated one. “Several farmers sold their paddy at below-MSP rates and now find themselves in a similar situation. This is an attempt to cheat farmers,” he said. He emphasised that the government’s payment at MSP should be considered final and that farmers must not be forced by arhtiyas to return any amount. “It indicates a scam and requires immediate investigation,” Mehla added.

Saurabh Choudhary, District Marketing Enforcement Officer, said market committee secretaries had already been instructed last month to prevent any deductions from farmers' payments. “If any farmer faces issues, they can file a complaint. We will take prompt action,” he said.