New Delhi: Following the rejection of the Centre’s proposal to procure pulses, maize, and cotton at MSP by farmers leading the ‘Delhi Chalo’ agitation, farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher has issued a warning to the BJP-led government, holding them accountable for the consequences that may unfold.
In light of the failed talks with the government, the protesting farmers have declared their intention to proceed with their march towards Delhi on Wednesday, February 21.
Pandher expressed on Tuesday morning that the government has made it evident that they will not permit the farmers to enter Delhi.
“The government’s intentions were crystal clear that they would not allow us to enter Delhi under any circumstances…If they are unwilling to seek a resolution through discussions with the farmers, then we should be granted permission to march towards Delhi,” he conveyed to ANI.
Drawing a parallel between the police’s unprecedented measures to impede the march and the situation in Kashmir, Pandher highlighted the situation in Haryana.
“As we advanced towards Delhi, there was shelling…Bullets were even fired at the tractors’ tires…The DGP of Haryana has stated that tear gas is not being used against the farmers…In that case, we demand punishment for those who are using it…Misleading statements are also being made…The situation in Haryana is akin to that of Kashmir. On February 21, we will march towards Delhi…The government has presented us with a proposal to divert us from our original demands…Now, the government will bear the responsibility for whatever unfolds,” he concluded.
Pandher on Monday said the farmers didn’t break the barricades and wanted to move towards Delhi peacefully. They wanted a place for their protest at Jantar Mantar but the government didn’t listen.
“We only want to get our demands met, but if the government does not listen, then we are compelled. On one side are the farmers, on the other side are the ‘jawans’ (police and paramilitary). We do not want any violence. If the government indulges in ‘jabar’ (oppression), then people of the country will think whether such people should be in power or not,” Pandher had said.
In addition to their other demands, the protesters are also calling for the provision of pensions for farmers, the forgiveness of debts, and the restoration of the 2013 Land Acquisition Act.