BKU (Lakhowal) urges govt to expedite lifting of paddy

The Bhartiya Kisan Union (Lakhowal) held its monthly meeting here today under the presidentship of Harinder Singh Lakhowal. Addressing the meeting, Ajmer Singh Lakhowal, former president of BKU, said that Punjab had failed to procure the paddy produce of farmers.

“It was announced that procurement would start from October 1. But till now, the process has not begun. The AAP government has failed on every front. Sheller owners and workers are on strike and although the government claims that their demands have been met, the reality is something different,” said Ajmer Singh Lakhowal.

According to Harinder Singh Lakhowal, paddy produce has ripened and farmers have to harvest it, he cannot store it for long while there is already a glut in the grain markets. The government should start the purchasing of paddy produce at the earliest, otherwise left with no other option, the farmers will start protests and the government will be responsible for it.

Whenever there is any incident of stubble burning, the officials concerned reach the spot to issue challans and impose fine, but nobody seems concerned about the pollution spread by crackers and factories.

“Everyone should be dealt with in the same manner and anybody found responsible for air pollution should be fined and strict action taken. It should not the case only with the farmers,” said HS Lakhowal.

The BKU members also urged the government to make DAP fertiliser available as rabi season is approaching and this fertiliser will be needed for the crops.