Surjewala attacks BJP on multiple farmer issues
Rajya Sabha MP and Congress leader Randeep Singh Surjewala on Sunday launched a sharp attack on the BJP-led governments at the Centre and in Haryana, alleging that their policies have adversely affected farmers, labourers and the economically weaker sections of society. He also accused the government of weakening the agricultural marketing system and neglecting the concerns of farmers.
Surjewala was speaking as the chief guest at the annual function of Jat Dharamshala in Kaithal. Kaithal MLA Aditya Surjewala was the guest of honour. The two leaders inaugurated a newly constructed hall and kitchen at the Dharamshala complex.
Mandi system under threat, alleges Surjewala
“The BJP government is dismantling the mandi system. Dhand mandi had already been shut down. A 100-acre Adani silo is being developed at Samalkha. The government is preparing to gradually close agricultural markets across the country over the next five to seven years,” said Surjewala.
He claimed that the closure of mandis would deprive farmers of fair price discovery and force them to sell at lower rates to private players.
Fertiliser black marketing and import failures
Surjewala alleged that black marketing of fertilisers was taking place across Haryana due to the BJP’s failure to import adequate supplies, leaving farmers to face unnecessary hardships. He did not provide specific figures but said the shortage was widespread.
Seed Bill: a ‘major betrayal’ of farmers
Referring to the proposed Seed Bill, Surjewala claimed that the Centre intended to introduce legislation in the upcoming Parliament session under which farmers using their own saved seeds could face a penalty of up to Rs 20 lakh and imprisonment of up to three years. He further alleged that seed testing would be conducted abroad and that the registration of seed companies would be handled by the Central government instead of state governments. Describing this proposed step as a “major betrayal” of farmers, he urged the government to reconsider its policies.
Grant for library at Dharamshala
During the event, Surjewala announced a grant of Rs 25 lakh for the construction of a modern library within the Jat Dharamshala complex. He said the library would benefit the local community, especially students and youth.
