Bhubaneswar, June 24: Allegations of a major move to privatize Odisha’s renowned seafood retail brand, Chilika Fresh, have sparked controversy within the state's fisheries sector. Critics claim that efforts are underway to hand over the first government-operated Chilika Fresh kiosk to a private agency despite there being no apparent necessity for such a move.
The proposal concerns the flagship Chilika Fresh kiosk located at Siripur in Bhubaneswar, which has traditionally been managed directly by the Fisheries Federation (FISHFED). The plan recently came under public scrutiny, putting FISHFED authorities in an uncomfortable position. Notably, no bidder showed interest in the tender floated for operating the kiosk, forcing authorities to extend the bid submission deadline.
The entire episode has drawn attention to FISHFED Director Subrata Das, who has come under criticism and suspicion from sections of employees and former officials.
According to sources, the Siripur kiosk has been managed by experienced and permanent departmental staff since its inception. However, due to inadequate maintenance and administrative neglect, the outlet reportedly slipped into a deteriorating condition. Critics argue that instead of identifying and rectifying operational shortcomings, authorities have opted to transfer management to a private entity.
Officials backing the move have reportedly cited financial losses incurred by the Siripur kiosk. However, opponents contend that profit-making was never the primary objective of the Chilika Fresh initiative. The project was launched to provide consumers with hygienic fish products while ensuring direct procurement from fish farmers and cooperative societies, thereby benefiting both producers and consumers.
Employees and former officials allege that FISHFED has been systematically handing over kiosks to private operators. They point out that previous attempts at privatized management led to operational difficulties, yet authorities appear determined to continue with the same model.
Critics have also drawn comparisons with public service organizations such as government-run transport services, which continue to operate despite not being profit-oriented, arguing that public welfare rather than financial gain should remain the focus of Chilika Fresh.
A tender for the Siripur kiosk was floated on June 2, with June 23 set as the last date for bid submission. However, no bids were received. Subsequently, the deadline was extended until July 14. Sources claim the extension was necessitated by the lack of response from prospective bidders.
The controversy has also coincided with administrative reshuffles within FISHFED. Several experienced officials were reportedly removed from key positions earlier, while some employees have recently been transferred. These actions have triggered dissatisfaction among sections of the workforce.
A former senior official alleged that attempts are being made to weaken the identity and credibility of the Chilika Fresh brand and urged the state government to intervene. Last month, the CRP and Saheed Nagar Chilika Fresh counters were reportedly privatized as well.
Meanwhile, a senior official of the Fisheries Department stated that even if kiosks are privatized, no existing employees would lose their jobs or be adversely affected by the transition.
