Brahmapur: The devastating floods triggered by cyclone Arnab reportedly claimed an alleged farmer suicide victim in Odisha’s Ganjam district. A 65-year-old cultivator allegedly ended his life after losing his entire paddy and vegetable crops to floodwaters.
The deceased, identified as Arjun Panda of Bakilikana village under Dengapadar panchayat in Sheragada block, allegedly consumed pesticide at his residence after becoming distressed over the extensive agricultural losses.
According to his elder son, Arjun had cultivated paddy and vegetables on around 25 bharans of land, including his own and leased land. Though he had not borrowed any money, the complete destruction of his crops left him deeply worried. Floodwater entered his house and farmland, while sand deposits further damaged the agricultural land.
Arjun is survived by two sons, one working as a driver and the other employed in Surat.
Sheragada police reached the spot, recovered the body and sent it to MKCG Medical College and Hospital in Brahmapur for post-mortem examination.
Former MP Chandrasekhar Sahu, former MLA Ramesh Chandra Chyau Patnaik and Brahmapur Mayor Sanghamitra Dalai visited the hospital and met the bereaved family to offer their condolences.
The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has demanded immediate compensation for the deceased farmer’s family.