Kaithal(Haryana): Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala led a protest by the farmers at Guhla Cheeka in Haryana's Kaithal district against restrictions imposed on paddy cultivation by the BJP-JJP led government in the state.
Extending his support to the farmers, Surjewala demanded immediate withdrawal of curbs which restricts paddy cultivation to 50 per cent area in 19 rich paddy blocks of Haryana.
Senior Congress leader accused Khattar-led government of crushing the rights of farmers. He said that the decision of Manohar Lal Khattar of restricting the paddy cultivation will deprive the farmers of their right to grow crops.
In addition to that, Surjewala also submitted a memorandum to Guhla's SDM demanding immediate withdrawal of the restrictions imposed on paddy cultivation.
It is to be noted that Haryana govt had earlier launched a new scheme 'Mera Pani Meri Virasat' on May 9 under which farmers growing alternative crops other than paddy during the Kharif season will be given an incentive of Rs 7,000 per acre. Revolting against the decision, over 2,000 agitated farmers had organised a protest march in Fatehpur district to raise their voices against the government's decision.
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Criticising the Haryana government for not paying attention to the situation of farmers, Surjewala said, "Khattar-led government is the first-of-its-kind to impose such curbs. This is too much for the farmers to bear. BJP govt is not concerned about the condition of the farmers. Earlier, Dadupur Nalvi irrigation scheme came to a halt and then there was a massive uproar on large-scale unemployment. Now, with this decision, farmers will have to pay a huge price".
He went on to add, "Manohar Lal Khattar should come and pay a visit to the flooded areas of Guhla Cheeka. If he confirms farmers can grow pulses and maize here, I will leave politics".
"Debarring paddy cultivation will deprive the farmers to get the advantage of Minimum Support Price. Congress stands with the farmers at this time of distress. Govt should also allow Dadupur Nalvi irrigation scheme to recommence to safeguard the interests of the farmers. Apart from that, govt should withdraw 50% reduction in power service connection charges for tubewell", he added.
