Will Rahul Gandhi and Kharge Lead Farmers' Protest in Bhopal on February 24?
Synopsis
Mark your calendars for February 24, as Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge lead a protest in Bhopal against the controversial India-US trade deal. This framework, criticized for its impact on Indian farmers, aims to open markets to cheaper US imports. Join the movement defending farmer rights!
Key Takeaways
Protest in Bhopal on February 24 against the India-US trade deal.
Led by Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge .
Focus on farmers' rights and concerns over cheaper imports.
Campaign targeting vulnerable agricultural states.
Highlighting adverse effects on key crops.
Bhopal, Feb 20 (NationPress) Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi are set to arrive in Bhopal on February 24 to spearhead a significant protest against the interim India-US trade framework. The party claims this deal is detrimental to Indian farmers, as it facilitates the entry of cheaper US imports.
Madhya Pradesh Congress President Jitu Patwari announced the event, stating: "On February 24, 2026, in Bhopal, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge ji and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi will advocate for the rights and welfare of farmers against the injustices inflicted by the India-US trade agreement."
Patwari accused the government of succumbing to US pressure, asserting that the deal has already led to falling prices for essential crops like soybean, cotton, and maize.
He criticized the agreement as a "compromise deal" forced upon farmers, stressing that the farmers of Madhya Pradesh—cultivators of soybean, maize, and cotton—along with their families, are being adversely affected.
The protest on February 24 is indicative of the party's dedication to advocating for farmers across the nation. It will take the shape of a Kisan Sammelan (farmers' convention) in Bhopal, initiating a focused campaign in vulnerable states including Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Bihar.
These areas are known for producing crops such as cotton, soybean, maize, fruits, nuts, apples, almonds, and walnuts, all of which are at risk due to lowered tariffs and the potential influx of US products like soybean oil, dried distillers’ grains (DDGS), and red sorghum.
Senior Congress leader Jairam Ramesh highlighted the damaging effects of the deal on cotton, soybean, and maize farmers, calling it a "complete surrender" to US corporate interests without adequate protections or farmer consultations.
This backlash comes in response to the framework announced earlier this month, which has triggered nationwide farmer protests, strikes, and symbolic burnings of copies of the deal.
The Bhopal Sammelan will mark the first of several events, with another scheduled in Yavatmal, Maharashtra, on March 7.
The Congress party is collaborating with farmer organizations to create a larger national movement.
Point of View
It's crucial to recognize that farmer welfare is a pressing issue across India. The upcoming protest in Bhopal reflects a growing concern over international trade agreements and their impact on local agriculture. This situation warrants attention and engagement from all stakeholders to ensure that farmers' interests are safeguarded while navigating global trade.
NationPress
6 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the protest on February 24?
The protest aims to oppose the interim India-US trade framework, which Congress claims adversely affects Indian farmers by allowing cheaper US imports.
Who are the key leaders involved in the protest?
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi will lead the protest.
What regions are targeted for the campaign?
The campaign is focused on Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Bihar.
What crops are particularly affected by this trade deal?
Key crops like soybean, cotton, and maize are expected to be negatively impacted by the deal.
What is a Kisan Sammelan?
A Kisan Sammelan is a farmers' convention aimed at discussing and addressing issues related to agriculture and farmer rights.
