Updated: September 18, 2020 7:36:45 am
Amid intensifying economic problems, unemployment and tension in LAC with China, the departure of the SAD from the Union government would give the Opposition a new way to mobilize forces against the BJP in the Bihar elections.
In the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic, the economic recession and Chinese aggression at the border, the ruling BJP suffered a setback on Thursday with the resignation of a minister from one of his traditional allies over an issue related to the agricultural sector.
With the central government turning one year old and the BJP preparing for elections in a key state, two of its oldest allies have already left government. While Shiv Sena parted ways with the BJP-led NDA shortly after the Maharashtra elections late last year, SAD leader Harsimrat Kaur Badal resigns the government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi while her party remains part of the NDA.
Harsmirat, daughter-in-law of SAD Patriarch Parkash Singh Badal, resigned as Minister of Food Processing Industries, saying her party cannot support legislation against farmers. An unflappable prime minister Modi described the three bills as “historic land reform bills.”
Within an hour of the bills being passed by Lok Sabha, Modi tweeted: “The passing of the historic land reform bills in Lok Sabha is an important moment for the country’s farmers and agricultural sector. These bills will really free farmers from middlemen and obstacles. “
Read | Farm Bills: Opposition breaks into Bills – draconian, send to panel
He added: “A lot of power is used to confuse farmers. I assure my farmer brothers and sisters that the MSP and public procurement system will be maintained. These bills will really empower farmers by giving them a lot more options. “
However, Thursday’s resignation would be a setback for the BJP for multiple reasons. Amid intensifying economic problems, unemployment and tension in LAC with China, the departure of the SAD from the Union government would give the Opposition a new way to mobilize forces against the BJP in the Bihar elections. The BJP would also have to fight the Opposition’s accusations of “usurping” the rights of states by pushing laws that are within the scope of its powers.
Opposition to the government’s move on agricultural bills came from states that are considered agricultural powers that contribute significantly to the country’s food security. This at a time when the government has been stressing the provision of free rations and food security amid the crisis of migrant workers during the pandemic.
Bihar elections | JDU seeks 115 seats, wants BJP to fight 128, accommodate LJP
As of Thursday morning, BJP leaders argued that SAD’s difference of opinion on the agricultural bills would not affect the government or the ruling alliance. “We try to persuade them and it is possible that they too will vote against the bill. But it’s okay. Even JD (U), our ally from Bihar, had a different opinion on issues like the repeal of Article 370 and the CAA, ”said a senior BJP leader. However, the JD (U) is not part of the central government.
Sources also pointed to the absence of a veteran leader like Arun Jaitley, who used to play a key role in keeping Punjab’s partner with the BJP. Party leaders said that SAD continued to be part of the alliance despite reservations expressed by its RSS ideological matrix due to Jaitley’s efforts.
Justifying its moves on the legislative front, the BJP argued that “contract farming” is encouraged by many states and would provide a “mechanism to improve linkages between farmers and markets through the active participation of the private sector.” They also noted that at least 19 states have already moved toward adopting legislation allowing private-market shipyards and direct buying and selling. It was the UPA government that initiated these reforms in the agricultural sector, they added.
“Congress in their 2019 manifesto mentioned that they will repeal the Agricultural Products Market Committees Act and make the trade of agricultural products, including export and interstate commerce, free of all restrictions,” said a party leader .
📣 The Indian Express is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@indianexpress) and keep up to date with the latest headlines
For the latest news about India, download the Indian Express app.
.
