Govt must address farmer’s concerns: Giani Harpreet Singh

In a statement, Giani Harpreet Singh said farmers, whom he described as the backbone of the country’s food security, had been forced to take the streets to press for what they consider their legitimate demands

Shiromani Akali Dal (Punar Surjit) president Giani Harpreet Singh on Thursday expressed solidarity with the protesting farmers and employees, accusing the Punjab government of failing to engage with them and address their demands.

Giani Harpreet Singh also referred to the issue of pending dues and other demands of government employees, claiming that more than six lakh employees had been denied payments legitimately due to them. (HT FILE)

In a statement, Giani Harpreet Singh said farmers, whom he described as the backbone of the country’s food security, had been forced to take the streets to press for what they consider their legitimate demands. He alleged that the government was not making adequate efforts to hold talks with the protesting groups and find an amicable solution.

Referring to farmers camping in trolleys along roadsides in Mohali, the SAD leader said such protests reflected growing public resentment and could have political consequences for the government.

“Governments must remember that these villagers settled on trolleys along the roadsides will ultimately have a bearing on their future,” he said, adding that those protesting for their rights were also voters who would eventually decide the fate of governments.