Farmers' Unions Criticize Government's Actions Against Protesting Farmers and Detentions
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Synopsis
Farmers' unions in Punjab have expressed dissatisfaction with the Central government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, especially after recent police actions against protesting farmers. Key leaders emphasized the need for dialogue and criticized the government's heavy-handed approach, which they believe undermines farmers' rights and unity.
Key Takeaways
- Farmers in Punjab express dissatisfaction with the Central government.
- Recent detentions of farmer leaders have escalated tensions.
- Protest sites have been dismantled, raising concerns among farmers.
- Leaders emphasize the need for dialogue and coordination.
- Ongoing protests are impacting Punjab's economy significantly.
Patiala, March 20 (NationPress) The farmers' unions in Punjab have voiced strong discontent with the present Central government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. One leader pointed out that both farmers and soldiers are dissatisfied with the government's stance.
This discontent followed the Punjab Police clearing farmers from their protest site at the Punjab-Haryana Shambhu Border on Wednesday. In retaliation for the detention of Kisan Mazdoor Morcha chief Sarvan Singh Pandher and Jagjit Singh Dallewal, farmers blocked National Highway 54 indefinitely, denouncing the government's actions. The police later detained several protesters.
Farmers attempting to obstruct the Bathinda route in Sri Muktsar Sahib were also apprehended before they could launch a demonstration.
In an interview with IANS, Captain Major Singh from the Kisan Union of Shadipur expressed his concerns regarding the treatment of farmers, labeling recent developments as profoundly troubling.
"What transpired with the farmers yesterday is extremely serious. Punjab, alongside the entire nation, is being drawn into this situation. Summoning farmers for discussions and subsequently detaining them is not only incorrect but also highly disrespectful," he stated.
Singh characterized the farmers' protests as an extension of their homes, asserting that roads have become their residence amidst the lack of solutions. He condemned the government's actions, particularly the recent dismantling of protest sites.
"If the government fails to meet their demands, it cannot compel them to retreat. It is the government's responsibility to listen and resolve these issues," he emphasized.
Lakha Singh Sandhu, a leader from the Bharatiya Kisan Union, also criticized the detention.
"This is the first instance where farmers have been detained after requesting a meeting. The evident lack of coordination between the authorities and farmers is alarming," Sandhu remarked.
He highlighted the necessity for ongoing dialogue, asserting that the farmers' demand for discussions should never have resulted in aggressive actions.
"The borders are open, which is a positive move, but the conflict could have been averted with proper coordination."
Harbans Singh Sandhu, another farmer leader, condemned the police's actions, stating that the entire scenario was avoidable.
"Farmers, police, and the government are all part of the same system. There should never have been a conflict between these factions," he said.
The leader criticized the government's inclination towards force, arguing that this deviates from the respect promised to farmers during electoral campaigns.
"The Bhagwant Mann government sought farmers' votes, yet now they have adopted an authoritarian stance, which contradicts the principles they vowed to uphold."
He also discussed the negative impact of road closures on Punjab's economy, highlighting that small businesses and urban populations are suffering due to ongoing protests.
"Our businesses are struggling, and the disconnect between urban residents and farmers is worsening. This separation has resulted in significant losses, and without unity, recovery may be unattainable," he lamented.
Pradhan Buta Singh, another farmer leader from Shadipur, joined the criticism, stating that the government's negotiation approach has been poorly managed.
"Instead of addressing the genuine issues such as road access, the government opted to vilify farmers. They should have acted transparently and with integrity," Singh asserted.
He blamed the Central government for creating divisions among farmers and undermining their collective strength.
"It's a disheartening day when our own government pits us against one another. This division is damaging the very fabric of Punjab."
Singh concluded with a stark reminder of the broader consequences of the government's actions since PM Modi assumed office in 2014.
"Since the BJP government took power, no one—be it farmers or soldiers—appears to be satisfied. This dissatisfaction extends beyond the farmers of Punjab; it impacts everyone. The unity among Hindus, Sikhs, and Muslims is a political miracle, but the greatest victim has been Punjab, particularly the farmers."
