Perceiving farmers as ‘annadatas’ and ‘backbone of economy’ Defence Minister in an interview on Wednesday said allegations like ‘Naxals’ and ‘Khalistanis’ against the protesting farmers are intolerable and nobody should make such remarks, adding that the farm laws are made in the interest of the farmers and they should give it a chance. He added that he was in pain to see the farmer protesting.
“These allegations shouldn’t be made against the farmers. We express our deepest respect towards our farmers. They are our ‘annadatas’. In the time of economic recession, the farmers have borne the responsibility of taking the economy out of trouble. They are the economy’s backbone and farmers have taken the country out of troubled waters on many occasions,” said Singh.
Suggesting that the protesting farmers should engage in logical discussion on every clause of the laws with the govt. This statement comes just a few hours before the next round of talks between the farmers’ unions and the Centre.
He said the government will do everything to resolve farmers problems while pointing out that forces are trying to mislead the farmers.
Stressing on MSP system continuation, Singh said that the government is committed to boosting the income of the farmers through these farm laws and there is “no question of being insensitive as far as the subject of farmers is concerned”.
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“The Sikh brothers have always protected the culture of the country. Their contribution will always be remembered for protecting the country’s self-respect. There is no question on their integrity,” the minister said on being asked why no BJP leader has visited the farmers protesting on the borders.
The Defence Minister earlier has suggested the implementation of the farm laws for a year or so and see if they work. If they do not serve any benefit for the farmers, Singh said would revoke the laws.