Congress Leader Accuses US Trade Deal of Crashing Agricultural Prices in India
Maharashtra Congress president Harshvardhan Sapkal has made serious allegations regarding the impact of a trade agreement with the United States on Indian farmers. Speaking on Monday, Sapkal claimed that prices of agricultural commodities, including fruits, have sharply declined since India entered into the trade pact, causing significant financial hardship for the farming community.
Shetkari Sangharsh Padyatra Highlights Farmer Grievances
While leading the "Shetkari Sangharsh Padyatra" from Kalamnuri to Hingoli in the Marathwada region, Sapkal emphasized that the protest march was organized to oppose what he described as the Central government's anti-farmer policies. The march, which began with tributes at the memorial of former MP Rajiv Satav, saw active participation from party leaders, workers, and local farmers.
Sapkal stated that the primary objective of the padyatra was to draw public and governmental attention to the severe challenges faced by various vulnerable groups. He specifically mentioned farmers, farm workers, women, tribal communities, and backward classes as those bearing the brunt of the economic policies.
Criticism of Wardhs-Goa Shaktipeeth Expressway Project
In addition to the trade agreement, Sapkal launched a scathing critique of the proposed Wardhs-Goa Shaktipeeth Expressway. He alleged that the real purpose of this massive infrastructure project is not to benefit agriculture but to facilitate the transport of minerals from Gadchiroli to coastal ports.
"This expressway is essentially a red carpet rolled out for big industrialists," Sapkal remarked. He questioned the government's priorities, pointing out the contradiction in allocating Rs 88,000 crore for the highway while claiming financial constraints in other areas. "When the government says it has no money to clear contractors' bills, pay salaries, or even provide assistance to women beneficiaries, what is the urgent need for such an expensive highway?" he asked.
Allegations on LPG Pricing and Parliamentary Inaction
Sapkal also addressed the issue of rising LPG prices, accusing the Centre of failing to pass on benefits to consumers when global crude oil prices fell. He claimed that instead, the government increased rates during periods of supply disruption, further burdening households.
He urged the government to address these critical issues in Parliament, emphasizing the need for transparent discussions and policy revisions to alleviate the suffering of farmers and common citizens. The protest march concluded with a public meeting in Hingoli, where Sapkal reiterated his demands for immediate governmental intervention.
The allegations highlight growing concerns over trade policies and infrastructure projects in Maharashtra, with the Congress party positioning itself as a vocal advocate for farmer rights and economic justice.
