At the peak of fertiliser sales and government scheme distribution through Primary Agriculture Cooperative Societies (PACS), seven secretaries from Sonepur and Boudh districts in Odisha allegedly went abroad without leave, local media reports say.
Acting swiftly, the Assistant Registrar of Cooperative Societies raided three PACS offices in Sonepur, found secretaries absent, and suspended them.
However, no action has been taken against four secretaries from neighbouring Boudh, sparking resentment among farmers and raising questions about unequal enforcement.
With kharif operations underway, the absence has disrupted fertiliser and seed supply, leading to delays and long queues. Farmers already battling heavy rains fear further setbacks to cultivation.