The Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) Charuni wrapped up its two-day national seminar at Jaat Dharamshala in Kurukshetra on Monday. This important gathering focused on critical farmer issues, plans for expanding the organization, and setting the union's future direction.
Major Resolutions and Rally Plans
Following the seminar, BKU Charuni national president Gurnam Singh Charuni held a press conference. He shared key decisions made during the discussions. With strong backing from all district committees, the union decided to ramp up preparations for a significant farmers' rally. This event is scheduled for March 23 at Pipli in Kurukshetra to honor Shaheed Bhagat Singh's martyrdom day.
To boost mobilization efforts, state-level meetings will take place in several regions. These include western Uttar Pradesh, the Terai region, eastern Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Punjab. Additionally, district presidents will organize meetings in their own areas to ensure widespread participation.
Charuni's Strong Statements
Charuni explained the rally's purpose by referencing Bhagat Singh's legacy. He stated that Bhagat Singh sacrificed his life for equality and justice, not for a country dominated by capitalists. Charuni made a bold claim, saying no capitalist became a martyr during India's freedom struggle. He also pointed out that even after Independence, no capitalist's son died defending the nation's borders in various conflicts.
According to Charuni, the entire system is now controlled by corporates. He alleged that over the past eleven years, loans worth Rs 16.50 lakh crore taken by large corporations were waived off. In contrast, debt-ridden farmers continue to suffer, with many driven to suicide because their loans are not waived.
Charuni expressed disappointment, saying Bhagat Singh's dream remains unfulfilled. He used strong language, claiming power was taken from the 'Gore Angrez' only to be handed to the 'Kaale Angrez'. He argued that money has become power and power has turned into money.
Highlighting economic disparities, Charuni noted that just nine individuals now possess wealth equal to that of nearly 55 crore people. He lamented that the poor are getting poorer while the rich grow richer. He also observed that the working class remains divided while capitalists stand united.
Demands for Investigation and Policy Changes
Charuni raised serious allegations about a multi-crore paddy scam in Haryana. He demanded a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into this matter. The March 23 rally, he said, will voice strong opposition against the current corrupt system.
The seminar also resolved to hold monthly block-level meetings. These aim to strengthen organizational reforms and expand the union's base. Discussions covered addressing farmers' issues at both national and international levels. In this regard, a meeting will be organized in New Delhi in February, with participation from other farmer organizations.
Charuni reiterated a core demand: farmers' produce should not be sold below the government-declared minimum support price (MSP). He accused the government of suppressing farmers through cheaper and unrestricted imports. Charuni insisted that imports should be limited and linked to domestic production. He argued that the price of imported crops should not fall below the cost of production and MSP for the same crop in India.
He further alleged that the government increases export taxes on basmati rice when international prices rise, harming farmers. Emphasizing the need to protect Indian farmers, Charuni called for the Government of India to exit the World Trade Organisation (WTO). He added that a nationwide plan will be formulated to intensify the struggle for farmers' rights.
Seminar Participation
The seminar saw attendance from farmer leaders across multiple states. Representatives from Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Punjab participated in the discussions, showing broad support for the union's initiatives.
