Congress Leader T.S. Singh Deo Decries Farmer Detentions as Assault on Democratic Ideals

Ranchi, March 20 (NationPress) Senior Congress leader T.S. Singh Deo on Thursday strongly condemned the detention of Punjab farmers near the Shambhu and Khanauri border points, labeling it an affront to democratic principles.

His comments followed the detention of several farmer leaders, including Sarwan Singh Pandher and Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who had been on an indefinite hunger strike, while they were returning from a meeting with a central delegation in Mohali.

Other leaders such as Abhimanyu Kohar, Kaka Singh Kotra, and Manjit Singh Rai were also reportedly detained during this crackdown.

In an interview with IANS, T.S. Singh Deo stated: "In a democracy, as long as individuals do not resort to violence and express their opinions peacefully, no government should impede their right to protest. The treatment of these farmers stands against the core values of democracy."

Singh Deo further criticized the management of law and order in Chhattisgarh, particularly in light of the deaths of 30 Maoists in two separate operations in Bijapur and Kanker districts.

He remarked: "This issue is under the purview of both state and Central governments concerning law and order. Regrettably, for decades, the governments have inadequately addressed this issue. We have been advocating for enhanced resources and enforcement, and currently, military presence in the region is adequate. Those continuing to promote their agenda through violence, especially those affiliated with Naxal (Maoist) ideologies, are now facing decisive action from authorities."

The Congress leader also shared his views on a recent development in Karnataka, where the state Assembly passed a resolution opposing the Centre’s proposed amendments to the Waqf (Amendment) Bill.

Questioning the rationale behind these amendments, he asked: "Why amend now? Existing laws already address any wrongdoing by registered institutions. What the government is attempting to do is establish a framework that may introduce unnecessary conflict by involving individuals from different religions in the management of a religious institution."

He stressed that while religious institutions should maintain their autonomy, any alterations should be thoughtfully considered to prevent igniting communal tensions.

Additionally, he proposed that if the government permits individuals from all religions to oversee the affairs of religious trusts, this should uniformly apply across all faiths.

Singh Deo also responded to the ongoing controversy surrounding the delimitation issue, which has incited protests nationwide.

"If delimitation results in an increase in Lok Sabha seats corresponding to population growth, as intended by the Constitution, there should be no objections. For instance, in Jharkhand, if the number of seats doubles, it would be just. However, concerns arise if the state’s seat count increases disproportionately," Singh Deo added.

The delimitation issue took center stage in Parliament on Thursday, as protests erupted in both Houses. DMK MPs donned matching T-shirts in protest against the proposed delimitation exercise, which is slated to occur post-2026 census unless Parliament opts to extend the freeze on delimitation through a constitutional amendment. The protests disrupted proceedings, leading to the adjournment of the Lok Sabha shortly after its session began. Speaker Om Birla condemned the protesters' actions, stating that wearing T-shirts in Parliament disrespects the institution’s dignity. In the Rajya Sabha, Chairperson Jagdeep Dhankhar also adjourned proceedings until noon following discussions on the matter.