Farmers Movement Archive

Repeal of farm laws victory of farmers, democracy: Rawat

Dehradun: Terming it a huge victory for farmers, who refused to budge even an inch and fought hard for the repeal of the three contentious farm laws, former Uttarakhand CM Harish Rawat on Friday said "the repeal of the "black laws" is the victory of democracy and sustained fight of farmers who remained united through the long haul." Attacking the Modi government, Rawat said fear of defeat in the upcoming assembly polls in Punjab, Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh is behind the withdrawal of the farm laws but "it will fail to make any impact and the BJP will not get any mileage from the issue. People are now well aware of their intentions". Remembering those who lost their lives during the agitation, the former CM said, "I request government to acknowledge the contribution of those who sacrificed their lives during the protest. They should be given the status of martyrs." He did not fail to mention that Rahul Gandhi was among the first politicians to raise the issue and take out a tractor rally in Punjab to express solidarity with the protesting farmers. Rawat was surprised that the law was framed even without consulting the farmers. "What is the point of having a law when the people who are associated with the sector do not want it. The farmers were never in favour of the three farm laws but it was forced on them. We need to appreciate their determination and patience. They camped for months at Delhi borders, braving the tough conditions. Their never give up attitude forced government to bow before them," he added. When told to reply if the move would benefit the BJP in the upcoming polls, Rawat said, "The damage has already been done and it is too late. It was the fear of being wiped out in the elections which made them take the decision. Let me remind my friends in the BJP that the farmers have fought for the cause and emerged victorious. It is the Union government’s defeat."

The Times of India

2021-11-20

Dehradun