New Delhi: The Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM) has announced the resumption of its agitation, focusing on the pending demands for a legal guarantee of Minimum Support Price (MSP) and a comprehensive farm loan waiver. SKM plans to submit a memorandum to both the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha to underscore these demands.
Reigniting the Movement: SKM’s Strategic Decision
The decision was made during SKM’s general assembly meeting on Wednesday. The organization, which spearheaded the significant farmers’ movement of 2020-21, declared its intent to reignite the agitation to enforce the December 9, 2021 agreement made with the Central Government. This agreement, signed by the Secretary of the Department of Agriculture, included key demands crucial to the farmers’ livelihood.
Nationwide Protests and Memorandums
SKM revealed plans to submit a detailed memorandum and demand letter to all Members of Parliament, urging support for their cause. To amplify their message, SKM will organize nationwide demonstrations and will mark August 9th as ‘Corporate Quit India Day’, drawing a parallel to the historic ‘Quit India Day’.
Political Support and Promises
In a related development, Congress leader and Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, pledged support for the farmers’ demands during his ‘Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra’. Gandhi assured that if the opposition alliance ‘The Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance’ (India) ascends to power following the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, they will meet the long-standing demands of the farmers, including the legal guarantee of MSP.
Congress’ Commitment to Farmers
Addressing the Kisan Mahapanchayat, Gandhi emphasized that farmers are currently deprived of fair prices for their crops. He reiterated Congress’ commitment to providing a legal guarantee for MSP upon gaining power at the Center. “Whenever farmers have sought assistance from Congress, it has been delivered be it loan waivers or MSP. Congress has always prioritized farmers’ interests and will continue to do so,” Gandhi asserted.
As SKM gears up for renewed protests and political engagement, the coming months will be crucial in determining the future of these pivotal agricultural demands.
