What Action is NHRC Taking for Timely Fertiliser Distribution and Farmer Protection?
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Synopsis
The NHRC's recent directives emphasize the urgent need for timely fertiliser distribution to farmers, addressing severe shortages impacting crop safety during the Kharif season. This comes amid allegations of police violence against farmers, highlighting the critical intersection of human rights and agricultural welfare.
Key Takeaways
- The NHRC is focusing on ensuring timely fertiliser distribution.
- Police actions against farmers have drawn significant concern.
- Reports of shortages are leading to farmer distress.
- Authorities are urged to investigate incidents of police violence.
- An Action Taken Report is expected within two weeks.
New Delhi, Sep 12 (NationPress) The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has instructed the Chief Secretaries of every State and Union Territory to guarantee the effective and prompt distribution of fertilisers, including urea and DAP, to farmers nationwide.
A bench led by NHRC member Priyank Kanoongo took note of a complaint highlighting significant shortages of fertilisers in various states, impacting farmers during the vital Kharif season.
In its directive, the prominent human rights body mandated that the Directors General of Police (DGPs) across all States and Union Territories must refrain from employing any harsh measures, such as lathi charges or abusive behavior, against farmers who are queuing for fertiliser distribution.
Moreover, it has urged authorities to conduct investigations into reported instances of police aggression against farmers and to provide a report on these occurrences.
The NHRC has instructed the Secretaries of the Union Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare and the Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers to facilitate a seamless and efficient distribution process for fertilisers.
This esteemed human rights organization has requested an Action Taken Report (ATR) from all relevant authorities within a two-week timeframe. The complaint indicated that the delay in providing essential fertilisers like Urea and DAP has caused notable distress and frustration among impoverished farmers striving to safeguard their crops.
Additionally, it was alleged that in certain states, police and administrative personnel resorted to lathi charges and other forms of intimidation against farmers awaiting fertilisers.
Seeking the NHRC's intervention, the complainant called for immediate action to ensure proper and timely fertiliser distribution and to investigate the underlying causes of these shortages. Under Section 12 of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, the apex body remarked that if the allegations hold true, they suggest serious infringements of the human rights of the affected farmers.
Point of View
We recognize the NHRC's proactive stance on the issue of fertiliser distribution as essential for safeguarding farmers' rights and ensuring food security. The nation must prioritize agricultural welfare, and the actions taken by the NHRC reflect a commitment to uphold human rights amid pressing agricultural challenges.
NationPress
07/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the NHRC's intervention regarding fertiliser distribution?
The NHRC intervened due to complaints about severe fertiliser shortages affecting farmers during the Kharif season.
What actions has the NHRC directed towards police behavior?
The NHRC has instructed DGPs to avoid using force or abusive behavior against farmers waiting for fertiliser distribution.
What is the expected timeline for the NHRC's Action Taken Report?
The NHRC has requested an Action Taken Report from authorities within two weeks.
How do fertiliser shortages affect farmers?
Shortages of fertilisers like Urea and DAP can lead to crop damage, causing distress among farmers trying to protect their livelihoods.
What underlying issues are being investigated by the NHRC?
The NHRC is looking into reports of police lathi charges against farmers, which may indicate rights violations.
