Privatisation in agriculture in name of reforms: All India Kisan Federation

Federation to meet on Saturday to decide on strategy to oppose three agriculture bills

The All India Kisan Federation (AIKF) on Thursday supported the agitation launched by farmers in the country and state against the “anti-farmer ordinances” issued by the Centre.

Farmers protesting against the Centre’s three agriculture ordinances, claiming it will lead to the end of the minimum support price. (HT Photo)

In a joint statement, AIKF president and general secretary Prem Singh Bhangu and Vijay Kumar Chaudhary, respectively, said that the ordinances indicate that the government is appeasing the World Trade Organisation (WTO), which is dictating since India became its member, to abandon the support price and state procurement of agriculture produces and implement recommendations of the Shanta Kumar committee.

“This policy of privatisation in agriculture and handing it over to corporates is being carried out under the name of agriculture reforms,” Bhangu said in a statement. Opening of private markets, unrestricted trade, movement and unlimited storing and hoarding of agri-goods would open floodgates for big corporates and will abolish the small and marginal farmers, they added.

“Parliament led by the BJP is going to pass the remaining two Bills also by the blatant misuse of its majority. But it will be in utter disrespect of the aspiration and sentiments of the people,” said the two leaders.

They said that the state committee of the federation will meet in Doraha on Saturday to chalk out its protest strategy and submit a memorandum to the President for declining assent to the three bills passed by Parliament.