Farmers on indefinite fast

BARGARH: With the model code of conduct for the ensuing panchayat polls in effect, the district administration has expressed helplessness in meeting the demands of the farmers who are staging a fast-unto-death for the last three days. A group of 21 farmers of drought-prone Padampur sub division under the banner of Krushak Vikash Manch are staging the indefinite fast in front of the collectorate demanding declaration of the district as drought-hit. The District Collector, Bhabagrahi Mishra, expressed helplessness over the imposition of model code of conduct. The farmers resorted to the stir after their demands in the last four months went unheard. They alleged that crop insurance has become a hoax and farmers are being harassed, instead of being compensated.