The recent trade agreement between India and America has brought a boil in the politics of Punjab. Farmer organizations and the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) are seen in unison opening a front against the central government in protest against the inclusion of the agricultural sector in this agreement. While farmers consider it an attack on their livelihood, it has become a fight for survival for political parties.
Demand for special calling of assembly
Kisan Mazdoor Morcha leader Sarwan Singh Pandher has called this agreement against the interests of the farmers of Punjab. Questioning the silence of the state government, he has announced that on Thursday (February 5) the Chief Minister Bhagwant Maan Strong demonstrations will be held outside the houses of 21 AAP MLAs and 6 ministers, including their residence in Sangrur. Pandher has demanded that the Punjab government should call a special session of the Assembly and clarify its stand on this issue.
Even if I have to go to jail, I will not back down – AAP MLA
On the other hand, Aam Aadmi Party MLA Kuldeep Singh Dhaliwal clarified that his party is strongly against making agriculture a part of this agreement. He warned that even if the party leaders had to go to jail to stop the implementation of this agreement, they would not back down. AAP has indicated a movement against this.
Nationwide protest of United Kisan Morcha
Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM) has also made up its mind for an all-out fight. Morcha called Prime Minister in villages till 11th February Narendra Modi And has called for burning the effigy of US President Donald Trump. Also, it has decided to show its strength by joining the general strike of labor organizations on 12th February.
‘Death warrant’ for Indian farmers – which leader?
Haryana farmer leader Abhimanyu Kohad has termed this agreement as a ‘death warrant’ for Indian farmers. He said that all organizations will have to come on one platform to protect the interests of farmers.
Challenge for BJP also
This situation has become a new challenge for the Bharatiya Janata Party, which is trying to increase its support base in Punjab. Being an agricultural state, this strong protest by farmers can affect the future electoral prospects of BJP. Now everyone’s eyes are on the next step of the Central Government and this big movement starting in Punjab.