Farm leaders rally behind PM’s stand against US pressure

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s assertion that India will “never compromise the interests of its farmers” has drawn strong support from several farmer organisations. Leaders have urged the PM to remain steadfast against US pressure and to avoid giving special privileges to American companies operating in India.

Use made in India goods

We appeal to the public to boycott products of American companies and use goods manufactured by Indian firms. Several American companies are trying to control the market and should be thrown out of the country. When they are trying to destroy us, why should we spare them or give them special treatment? — Gurnam Singh Charuni, BKU (charuni) chief

Bhartiya Kisan Union (Charuni) chief Gurnam Singh Charuni said, “We are thankful to the Central Government for taking a stand, because the US wants India to open its agricultural sector which is against the interests of the farmers. The country will stand by the Prime Minister on this issue. We will urge the government to take more stern decisions and give a befitting reply to America.”

Calling for a boycott of American products, Charuni said, “We appeal to the public to boycott products of American companies and use goods manufactured by Indian firms. Several American companies are trying to control the market and should be thrown out of the country. When they are trying to destroy us, why should we spare them or give them special treatment? It has come to our notice that three American brands have set up businesses in Gharaunda, Karnal, with special access from the National Highway. The union will soon hold a meeting and, if required, launch a protest against American policies and their companies in India.”

Tejveer Singh, spokesman of BKU (Shaheed Bhagat Singh), stressed, “It is important to save the farmers and the agricultural sector if the government wants to save the Indian economy. The country has the capabilities, and the Centre should continue to take a firm stand against US pressure.”

Echoing similar sentiments, BKU (Pehowa) spokesman Prince Waraich said, “The Prime Minister has said the country will not compromise the interests of farmers, fishermen and dairy farmers. Opening the Indian agriculture sector to America will be disastrous not only for farmers, but for the entire nation. If the Prime Minister continues to take a firm stand in support of farmers, they will also support him. Farmers are only against wrong policies, not against Prime Minister Modi personally.”

Ganna Kisan Sangharsh Samiti leader Vinod Rana said, “It is surprising to see how the BJP government and the Prime Minister have expressed concerns about farmers’ interests, as the two sides have been at loggerheads over various farm issues. However, since this is a matter of national interest, farmers will extend full support to the Prime Minister and urge him to maintain a strong stand against the US. The country will not tolerate any wrong action by the US President against India.”

Haryana Tribune