Chandigarh, June 20: The Samyukt Kisan Morcha met with Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria to submit a memorandum outlining key demands from farmers. Balbir Singh Rajewal, founder of the Bharatiya Kisan Union, shared details of the meeting with reporters.
Rajewal highlighted concerns regarding water quality, stating that the current supply contains uranium and heavy metals. He emphasized the need for immediate action, especially as cancer cases are rising in Punjab. Last year, the state’s water minister noted that Punjab is becoming known as a “cancer state.” Given these alarming conditions, the farmers are urging the government to take steps to normalize the situation.
The demands include ensuring access to potable water in every city and village, as well as sufficient water for agricultural needs. Rajewal criticized the government for its lack of transparency, claiming it is preparing to implement free trade while concealing critical information. He pointed out that the U.S. government is actively supporting its farmers, while the current Indian government has not taken similar steps.
Rajewal also raised the issue of farmer debt, referencing a historical text that states farmers are born into debt and die in debt. He recalled protests from 1984 when the Raj Bhavan was surrounded, leading to the formation of the Jawahar Committee, which had previously aided farmers during food crises.
He noted that during the tenure of former Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal in 2007-2008, a committee of agricultural economists provided a report to the Indian government. However, the government set low prices for wheat and paddy, exacerbating the farmers’ plight. Rajewal questioned why the government forgives corporate debts but does not extend the same relief to farmers and laborers.
Additionally, he expressed opposition to the Dam Safety Act, stating that farmers from Punjab and Haryana have historically been involved in the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB), but now Rajasthan has been included instead. The farmers demand the repeal of this act.
The governor informed the farmers that he would be traveling to Delhi on June 26, where he plans to address their issues and mention the memorandum. Rajewal also noted that there are pending cases against some farmers, which the government had promised to withdraw but has yet to do so.
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