Farmers Movement Archive

Punjab BJP panel briefs top brass on farm stir

JALANDHAR: Punjab BJP core committee has briefed its central leadership on the situation in the state in view of the recently enacted agriculture laws. It is learnt the BJP top brass has told its state leadership that there was no question of going back or making any amendments in the laws. Sources in BJP revealed that worried over no let-up in strong opposition to farm bills in Punjab, the state unit leadership decided to brief the central leadership. It is learnt that state BJP leaders also wanted to urge the leadership to explore the option of an amicable solution to the situation. The 13-member delegation of the core committee led by state unit chief Ashwani Sharma met BJP president J P Nadda and general secretary B L Santosh on October 29 in Delhi and they explained the situation in Punjab. The possible negative fallouts, which can have serious ramifications for future and present situation in Punjab, are being seen and projected as a case of discrimination against the state. It is learnt that they explained that continuing bitterness could make the perception of discrimination plausible, which could have social and political ramifications as most farmers in the state were Sikhs. Sources said they also explained that “some vested interests” could also “exploit” the situation. With train traffic remaining suspended, especially goods trains which can lead Punjab-based industry into a mess, the state leadership has been apprehending negative reactions from urban sectors also. Sources in Punjab BJP said they urged central leaders to help scale down the situation and options should be explored to bring farmers around. It is learnt that the core committee members were told by top party leaders that there was no question of amending the laws or backing off, and state leaders should still try to reach out to farmers and explain to them the benefits of farm bills. When contacted, Sharma said they explained the prevailing situation of agitation and political situation in the state. He said the Union government was convinced that farm laws were in favour of farmers, but they were open to talk to anybody. “They also asked us to stay in touch with farmers,” he added.

The Times of India

2020-11-02

Chandigarh