Is the Maha government to blame for the surge in farmers' suicides?
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Synopsis
Vijay Wadettiwar criticizes the MahaYuti government for the alarming rise in farmers’ suicides and corruption in the agricultural sector. He highlights the inadequate relief measures and the worsening law and order situation impacting women and children. This exposé sheds light on the urgent need for accountability and reforms in Maharashtra.
Key Takeaways
- 8 farmers commit suicide daily in Maharashtra.
- The government announced a relief package of Rs 32,000 crore that remains unutilized.
- The Minimum Support Price (MSP) for crops is not being honored.
- Crime rates, especially against women and children, are rising.
- Wadettiwar demands urgent reforms in agricultural policies.
Nagpur, Dec 13 (NationPress) The leader of the Congress Legislative Party, Vijay Wadettiwar, criticized the MahaYuti government on Saturday for the increasing number of farmers’ suicides, the improper utilization of funds in the agriculture sector, worsening law and order, escalating violence against women and children, and rampant corruption.
Wadettiwar initiated the opposition’s final week motion, asserting that eight farmers commit suicide daily in Maharashtra.
He pointed out that despite the state government announcing a relief package worth Rs 32,000 crore for districts affected by rain and floods, the funds have not been utilized.
Farmers in dryland regions were enticed with promises of Rs 18,500 per hectare aid, yet they only received Rs 8,500.
“The agriculture department required Rs 6,000 crore, but the government allocated only Rs 616 crore for farmers. The 'Krishi Samruddhi' scheme was launched with much fanfare four months ago, yet no funds have been allocated for it,” he stated.
This indicates that farmers will gain nothing from this Vidarbha session.
“With just two and a half months remaining in the financial year, merely 34 percent of the budgetary allocation for agriculture has been utilized,” he noted.
He further mentioned that farmers have suffered crop losses and soil erosion, while the prices of seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides have surged.
Farmers are not receiving the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for their yields, such as soybean, cotton, and paddy, demonstrating that the state government has misled the farmers.
Wadettiwar alleged that the law and order situation in Maharashtra has deteriorated, with rising crime rates.
According to NCRB statistics, Maharashtra ranks first in corruption and financial irregularities, as well as first in crimes against senior citizens and fifth in juvenile offenses.
“Daily, 8 rape cases and 51 kidnapping cases are reported in the state. The abuse and murder of a three-year-old girl is a disgrace to our society. Women do not feel safe. Approximately 82 children have gone missing in Mumbai over the last 36 days, with a disproportionate number being girls,” he mentioned.
Wadettiwar highlighted that between June and December, 370 minors disappeared, of which 268 were girls, emphasizing that nearly 33,228 positions are vacant in the state police force.
“Maharashtra has only 172 police officers per lakh population. The police force is under significant pressure and lacks basic amenities such as government housing,” he remarked.
According to Wadettiwar, the grip of 'MD' drugs is tightening in Pune, Mumbai, and Nagpur, ruining the youth.
“A gutka racket is active in Washim and Malegaon,” he added.
The Congress leader also revealed a disturbing case of a girls' trafficking ring in Palghar, Mokhada, and Wada areas, where girls are being sold for between Rs 40,000 to Rs 50,000.
Wadettiwar criticized the allocation of Mhar Vatan land in Mundhwa, Pune, to a company at a throwaway price, despite it not being designated for an IT park.
“Land valued at Rs 2000 crore was sold for Rs 300 crore, and the stamp duty of Rs 42 crore was waived. Why is no action being taken against the owner holding a 99 percent stake in Amedia Company, which acquired the land?” he questioned.
He demanded a White Paper on the revenue, grazing (Gairan), village (Gavthan), temple (Devasthan), government, and Vatan lands in Maharashtra.
Addressing various issues in Vidarbha, Wadettiwar insisted that the irrigation deficits in the region should be addressed immediately.
He also advocated for a bonus of Rs 1000 per quintal for paddy and Rs 2000 per quintal for soybean.
Additionally, he strongly pushed for the immediate approval of the Vidarbha Statutory Development Board.
Point of View
It is imperative to acknowledge the serious issues raised by Vijay Wadettiwar regarding the rising farmers' suicides and the detrimental state of law and order in Maharashtra. The concerns surrounding corruption and the plight of women and children cannot be overlooked. These matters require urgent attention and action from the government to restore public confidence and ensure safety for all citizens.
NationPress
13/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is causing the rise in farmers' suicides in Maharashtra?
The rise in farmers' suicides is attributed to inadequate government support, financial difficulties, rising costs of inputs, and a lack of access to Minimum Support Prices for their crops.
How has the government responded to the issue of farmers' suicides?
The government has announced relief packages, but critics argue these measures lack implementation and fail to provide the necessary support to affected farmers.
What are the statistics on crime against women and children in Maharashtra?
Maharashtra reports alarming figures, including daily incidents of rape and kidnappings, alongside a rising trend in crimes against women and children.
What is the state of law enforcement in Maharashtra?
The police force in Maharashtra is under-resourced, with a significant number of vacancies, leading to increased strain on officers and a decline in public safety.
What demands has Vijay Wadettiwar made regarding agricultural policies?
Wadettiwar has called for immediate approval of the Vidarbha Statutory Development Board, financial bonuses for farmers, and a comprehensive review of land allocations and agricultural schemes.
