IT News
Imphal, Dec 26:
Left wing political parties of Manipur – CPI(M), CPI, AIFB and RSP expressed strong protest against the allegations being made by Prime Minister Modi , Chief Minister of Manipur Biren and BJP accusing the opposition parties of “repeatedly lying” to the farmers about the new farm laws and “using them for their politics”.
“Their accusations are a complete travesty of truth”, a joint statement of the left party said.
It added that the left party have expressed solidarity with the protesting farmers. The call for this ongoing historic struggle was given by more than 500 kisan organisations from all over the country under the banner of Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM). Many of us had opposed these Agri Laws when they were being enacted in the Parliament, without discussions, or, a proper consideration. MPs who sought a vote were suspended.
Amongst the many unsubstantiated accusations made, one of them is that those who spoke of agrarian reforms in election manifestoes earlier but are now opposing. Yes, we are for reforms, but what sort of reforms? Opposition parties seek reforms to strengthen Indian agriculture; enhance the prosperity of our farmers; and ensure continued food security for our people and the country. The present farm laws undermine these very objectives.
“Among the “big lies” that the opposition is supposedly spreading is on the MSP. They, the PM , the CM of Manipur and BJP claims implementing the Swaminathan Commission Report in this regard. This Report had recommended an MSP of C2+50 per cent, while this government, at best, implements A2+50 per cent. In fact, this government told the Supreme Court its inability to implement C2+50 per cent MSP. Who is spreading untruths?”, the statement added.
The statement further said that the accusation that opposition parties are “shooting from the shoulders of the farmers” in order to “regain lost political ground”. Despite all tall claims of improving farmers’ prosperity and implementing a higher MSP, the fact remains that farmers’ distress due to indebtedness is growing leaving a record number of them with no other recourse than committing distress suicides.
The unity, grit and determination being shown by lakhs of farmers from Delhi’s neighbouring states in the midst of a severe cold wave in a peaceful manner and tens of thousands now on their way marching from different places to join this protest is a testimony to the fact that the farmers across the country have risen in opposition to these farm laws. Already 32 farmers have lost their lives.
The left parties demand that the present Agri Laws be repealed along with the Electricity (Amendment) Bill 2020. Following this, discussions on agrarian reforms must be held by the Central government with the farmers and all stakeholders. On the basis of these consultations new enactments may be considered by the Parliament, if necessary, by convening a special or a joint session.
The left parties also added that they are ready for an open discussion on the Farm Bills with their representatives in any forum including the platform of Electronic Media if they accept our proposal.
The statement was jointly signed by Kshetrimayum Santa, Secretary, CPI (M) Manipur, Laishram Sotinkumar, Secretary, CPI, Manipur, Khomdram Gyaneshwor, Secretary, AIFB, Manipur and Ningthoujam Ratan, Secretary, RSP, Manipur.
