Singur (West Bengal), April 9 (NationPress) Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan sharply criticized the state government on Thursday for the dire situation faced by farmers in Singur, accusing them of neglect, ineffective policy execution, and a failure to deliver justice over the last 15 years.

In an interview with IANS, Chouhan stated that farmers in Singur are “shedding tears of blood” and are thoroughly worn out from ongoing hardships. He asserted that the agricultural lands in the area have been devastated, with neither industrial growth nor the restoration of farmland taking place.

“Farmers feel they belong nowhere. They have been left in despair and justice has eluded them. Had the state government genuinely cared, the plight of the farmers could have improved over the past 15 years,” he remarked, targeting Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

Chouhan further declared, “TMC signifies too much Crime, too much Corruption, and too many conspiracies,” highlighting his political critique of the ruling party.

Focusing on the challenges faced by potato farmers, he mentioned seeing mountains of unsold potatoes in Singur, as farmers struggle to obtain fair prices. He alleged that their produce is being sold at negligible rates, exacerbating their financial woes.

The Union Minister also condemned the state government for failing to utilize central schemes designed to assist farmers. He noted initiatives like the Price Support Scheme (PSS) and the Market Intervention Scheme, which allow states to procure agricultural products to stabilize prices.

“Even with all the aid from the Government of India, they have not even attempted to seek permission for implementation. This indicates their true intentions—they are permitting farmers to suffer while showing no concern for their welfare,” he asserted.

Chouhan added that the Centre is ready to provide all necessary support and will once again reach out to the state government to ensure that farmers reap the benefits of available schemes.

“We plan to reengage with the state government to facilitate the implementation of these schemes. Or, once a change in power occurs, both the central and state governments can collaborate as a ‘double-engine’ force to tackle the issues faced by farmers here,” he stated.

On the matter of SIR, Chouhan also took aim at opposition claims, alleging discrepancies in voter lists. He pointed out that those who have committed wrongdoings are now the ones raising objections.

“If incorrect names are on the list or if deceased individuals remain, what is the problem in rectifying them? Those who succeed through scams and frauds are naturally going to be anxious,” he concluded.