Surjewala Slams Haryana BJP Government Over Farm Procurement Hurdles
In a sharp critique, AICC general secretary and Rajya Sabha MP Randeep Surjewala on Sunday accused the Nayab Saini-led BJP government in Haryana of deliberately creating procedural barriers to frustrate farmers attempting to sell their rabi crops, particularly wheat and mustard, at grain markets. Surjewala, while addressing the media, asserted that the government is systematically introducing complications and obstructions to reduce procurement targets and undermine the Minimum Support Price (MSP) system.
Allegations of Conspiracy Against Farmers
Surjewala highlighted that after the forced withdrawal of the three contentious farm laws, the BJP governments at both the central and state levels are now conspiring daily to eliminate MSP through indirect means. He described the Haryana government's latest directives as a "Tughlaki diktat," labeling it a despicable and cruel conspiracy aimed at avoiding crop purchases by imposing absurd complications and forceful obstructions in the procurement process.
Specific Procedural Barriers Outlined
Detailing the hurdles, Surjewala pointed out that the first condition for wheat procurement requires farmers to transport crops in their own tractor-trolleys, with the vehicle number clearly displayed. A photo of the tractor-trolley and its number must be taken at the mandi gate, uploaded to a government portal, and only after verification will a gate pass be issued. He questioned the practicality of this rule, asking if the government assumes every farmer owns a tractor-trolley.
Further complicating matters, Surjewala raised concerns about farmers who hire tractor-trolleys for transportation. He noted that the Haryana government does not permit tractor-trolleys for commercial operations, such as hiring out for crop transport. This creates a catch-22 situation: how can farmers without their own vehicles bring their crops to market? He also questioned whether hired tractor-trolleys would be challaned or if the government would issue transportation permits universally across the state.
Procurement Targets and Data Backing Claims
Surjewala also criticized the reduction in procurement targets, pointing out that the goal has been lowered from 80 lakh tonnes to 72 lakh tonnes. He justified his allegations with facts and figures, citing data downloaded from various sources to support his claim that the Modi and Nayab Saini governments are conspiring to avoid purchasing rabi crops at MSP.
Warning of Potential Farmer Protests
In a stern warning, Surjewala stated that if these complications, obstructions, and procedurally created barriers are not removed immediately, the farmers and farm laborers of Haryana will be forced to take to the streets to protect their rights. He emphasized that this issue is not just about procurement but about the survival and dignity of the agricultural community in the state.
The accusations come amid ongoing tensions in the agricultural sector, with farmers seeking assurances on MSP and fair procurement practices. Surjewala's statements highlight the deepening rift between the government and farming communities, potentially setting the stage for renewed protests if grievances are not addressed promptly.
