Punjab AAP Calls on Centre to Address Farmers' Concerns
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Chandigarh, Dec 6 (NationPress) Demonstrating solidarity with the farmers of Punjab who are currently staging protests at the Shambhu and Khanauri borders, state Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) President Aman Arora on Friday called on the Central government to heed their demands and cautioned that any actions taken could worsen the situation.
In his statement, Arora remarked: "Farmers in Punjab have resolved to embark on a peaceful march from the Shambhu border towards Delhi. For nearly 10 months, farmer organizations and their allies have been stationed at the Shambhu and Khanauri borders, voicing their valid concerns. The Punjab Government has made several attempts to mediate and address their issues with the Central government, but it appears that the Centre is ignoring their struggles."
The protesting farmers are advocating for their long-standing demands, which include a legal guarantee for minimum support price (MSP) for crops and a loan waiver.
He criticized the Haryana government for implementing prohibitory orders that "are currently hindering the farmers’ peaceful march".
Initially, it was indicated that farmers could march on foot, yet now it has come to light that Haryana has enforced restrictions to obstruct them. Such measures are unwarranted and only serve to escalate tensions,” he continued.
Addressing the Central government and the BJP regarding their treatment of farmers, Arora stated: "Farmers are the backbone of our nation. They have nourished the country for generations and deserve both respect and attention. Treating them as second-class citizens is unacceptable. The Centre must engage with the farmers and address their legitimate demands rather than showing indifference."
He cautioned that obstructing a peaceful protest could lead to conflict and exacerbate the already tense situation.
"If the Centre and Haryana Police impede peaceful protests, the likelihood of confrontation and unrest will increase. Neither AAP nor the Punjab government desires such a scenario. It is essential for the Centre to approach this matter with sensitivity."
Arora also reached out to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP leaders, asserting: "Delhi is the capital of our nation, and all 1.4 billion Indians have the right to enter it peacefully. I urge PM Modi, the BJP, and the Central government to reconsider their approach towards the farmers. Engage with farmer organizations and promptly address their valid demands."
Another party member and state Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema remarked that the BJP has a history of showing contempt towards the farmers of the country, and their actions reveal a deep-rooted bias against those who sustain the nation.
