Hooda calls for dialogue to resolve farmers’ demands
Former Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda has called upon the BJP-led government to address the concerns of farmers through dialogue, terming the administration's approach as insensitive and undemocratic.
Hooda expressed serious concern about the health of farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who has been on a fast-unto-death for 20 days. “His life is precious and the government should make efforts to end his fast by accepting the farmers' demands,” Hooda stated, emphasising the urgency of the situation.
Responding to questions about visiting the protest site at Khanauri border, Hooda said he would do so if necessary. “The Congress has always supported farmers’ demands, but I am not in any number game,” he said.
Speaking to media here, Hooda said the farmers’ movement has remained peaceful so far. “Farmers have agreed to go to Delhi without using tractor-trailers to ensure a peaceful protest. However, stopping them from proceeding to Delhi is a completely undemocratic step. In a democracy, all citizens have the right to travel and express their views peacefully,” he said.
Hooda argued that the farmers’ demands are both justified and longstanding. He criticised the BJP government for failing to implement its promises regarding the minimum support price (MSP). “The BJP regime itself concluded the farmers’ movement by promising MSP. However, there is no trace of the MSP committee to date,” he stated.
Hooda further highlighted the growing debt burden on farmers, noting that agricultural debt nationwide has risen from approximately Rs 8 lakh crore in 2014 to Rs 25 lakh crore. “The Congress has supported the Swaminathan formula for MSP from the beginning. While the BJP government promised to double farmers’ incomes by implementing the Swaminathan report, it has instead increased their input costs manifold,” he asserted.
He said farmers are now holding the government accountable for unfulfilled promises, including the commitment to double farm incomes.
