Ex-CM Hooda slams BJP for neglecting farmers’ needs
Former Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda has slammed the BJP government, stating it has failed to provide minimum support price (MSP) and fertilisers to farmers. He criticised the government for forcing farmers to sell their crops below the MSP due to the non-purchase of paddy in the mandis.
Hooda pointed out that the BJP had promised a rate of Rs 3,100 for paddy during elections but has since gone back on its commitment. “Farmers are left with no option but to sell their crops at prices lower than MSP, with many struggling to get fertilisers,” he said.
He highlighted the ongoing fertiliser shortage, stating that farmers are enduring long queues with no assurance of receiving the necessary supplies. This has compelled many to resort to the black market to obtain fertilisers. "The mandis across the state are overflowing with paddy, yet the government is delaying purchases and lifting, causing 10 lakh metric tonnes of paddy to remain unlifted. This has further delayed payments to farmers," he added.
Hooda condemned the government’s focus on penalising farmers for stubble burning instead of addressing the root problems. "Cases against farmers are increasing, and they are being unjustly targeted. Instead of punishing them, the government should fix an MSP for stubble and buy it from them," he demanded. He urged the government to withdraw its punitive measures and seek effective solutions for stubble disposal.
