Farmers Warn Khattar to Face Protests If Their Demands Are Not Fulfilled

Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU), farmer outfit, wrote to Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar. The Union asked for immediate implementation of the recommendations of the Swaminathan Commission report and fulfill other demands.  

Farmers made clear that if their demands are not fulfilled, then be ready to face protests. 

BKU Demands: 

The BKU said, “Farmers from across the State would participate in the ‘Kisan Mazdoor Raj Rally’ on February 3 in Kutukshetra’s Pipli and, if before the rally, the State government does not pay any heed to the genuine demands of the farmers, then the union will intensify its agitation against the State government.” 

Gurnam Singh Chaduni, BKU (Haryana) State president, addressed to the Chief Minister and pointed out that the BJP had promised to implement the recommendations of the Swaminathan Commission in their election manifesto during 2014 parliamentary polls but had taken a U-turn. 

MSP: 

According to Mr. Chaduni, “Implementation of MSP on the basis of the Swaminathan Commission is required urgently. Lower prices of agricultural produce disproportionate to the prices of farm inputs have made farmers land into debt trap.”  

Prof. M.S. Swaminathan, head of the National Commission on Farmers, recommended in his report fixation of MSP for agriculture crops on the basis of actual cost of production and 50% profit. The Commission had also recommended several measures to prevent farmers’ suicides and achieve faster and inclusive growth.  

Mr. Chaduni further added that complete farm debt waiver should also be immediately announced to address their financial distress. Besides, fixation of minimum income for farmers, the MSP for milk and vegetables are the other demands that the government should fulfil soon. 

BKU leader and spokesperson Rakesh Bains said, “While the sufferings of farmers increase, the BJP governments at the Centre and in Haryana continue to adopt an indifferent attitude towards their redressal. If by February 1 the State government does not invite us for talks, we will be forced to intensify our agitation.”