TFP Bureau, Raipur, February 16, 2024: The Chhattisgarh Pradesh Congress Committee has thrown its weight behind the farmers’ movement and announced its support for the Bharat Bandh scheduled for Today. State Congress President and MP Deepak Baij reaffirmed Congress’s solidarity with the agrarian community, condemning the government’s inaction and failure to fulfill promises made to farmers.
Baij reminded Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s pre-2014 Lok Sabha election pledge to ensure Minimum Support Price (MSP) for crops, labeling the government’s backtrack on this commitment as regrettable. He condemned the forceful obstruction of farmers marching to Delhi and emphasized the importance of honoring the recommendations of the Swaminathan Commission, including the implementation of MSP.
Taking a swipe at Prime Minister Modi’s past statements advocating for MSP, Baij highlighted the discrepancy between Modi’s promises and the government’s actions. He cited instances where Modi, as Chief Minister of Gujarat, championed MSP but later reneged on these assurances upon assuming the role of Prime Minister.
Baij criticized the government’s dismissal of the demand for 50 percent profit on the cost of production, as promised by Modi during the 2014 election campaign. He accused the government of misleading farmers and failing to provide the guaranteed MSP, despite assurances to the contrary.
Furthermore, Baij expressed disappointment over the lack of progress in addressing farmers’ grievances, noting the absence of a committee to resolve MSP-related issues. He condemned the use of force against peaceful protesters and urged Prime Minister Modi to apologize for his derogatory remarks and broken promises to farmers.
Sushil Anand Shukla, Chairman of the Congress Communication Department in Chhattisgarh Pradesh Congress Committee, echoed Baij’s sentiments, underscoring the party’s commitment to advocating for farmers’ rights and holding the government accountable for its actions.