Problems faced by farmers are old as agriculture itself. Recently, the new farm bills also have agitated farmers. Addressing that, opposition leader Ghulam Nabi Azad suggests the government repeal the laws.
Discussion on Farmers Protest in the Parliament
The discussion between the government and its opposition took place at the Rajya Sabha. However, the talks were not as calm, as the upper house protested debate on the motion before discussing the farmer’s protest matter. Also, three members from the Aam Aadmi Party were shouting slogans and were asked to leave.
Initially, the discussion was for five hours, as requested by the opposition parties. However, the government increases the farmer’s protest stand-alone discussion for fifteen hours.
Despite agreeing for the discussion, the centre clarifies that it conforms to amend but refuses to take back the laws. Also, looking at the intensity of the violence during protests, the government requests opposition to stop turning this into another incident like Shaheen Bagh.
Debate on the Motion of Thanks
Bhubaneswar Kalita, the BJP member, initiated the debate on Motion of Thanks to the President’s address. He started by mentioning that the new farm laws’ benefits are reaching over ten crore farmers. Further, he adds that the rights of the farmers remain intact. In fact, he highlights that the new farm laws give more rights to the farmers. Bearing in mind the farmers’ welfare, Narendra Singh Tomar and Piyush Goyal have tried to resolve the issue several times, says Kalita. Finally, he emphasises that the government is ready to discuss all problems but will not repeal the laws.
Ghulam Nabi Azad Addressing the Issues
Ghulam Nabi Azad, Congress leader, condemns the Republic day violence, but orders to repeal the laws. Further, he requests the PM himself to announce the repealing of the farm laws. Also, he pledges the government to keep in mind the plight of farmers rather than making this a prestige issue. Additionally, he questions the government why it is fighting against the farmers rather than concentrating on economic revival. Furthermore, he ordered the government to look into several farmers that went missing during the protest. Lastly, he also demands the release of Shashi Tharoor.
Opposition Leaders Against the Farm Laws say Repeal the Laws
Several opposition leaders join hands to support the farmer’s protest. Prasanna Acharya, BJP, questions why the government is not ready to add two lines that guarantee MSP in farm laws. Further, Turuchi Siva, DMK party rightly points out how the laws came into the picture- as ordinances. While, Ram Gopal Yadav, SP, highlights that the government is relentless to see farmers dying of cold but not taking any action. In all, the opposition leaders are calling the government to repeal the laws.
To conclude, the farmers have been protesting at the Delhi Borders since November. It is not only our duty but humane to give this issue the utmost priority. Further, it is more significant for the government to resolve the issue as farmers are indeed the pillars of our nation.