Defense Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday disapproved of comments such as ‘Naxal’ and ‘Khalistani’ for farmers who oppose the new farm laws, saying “no one should make such accusations” against any farmer. He also recalled the sacrifices of the Sikh community and said “there can be no doubt about their integrity.”
In an interview with the ANI news agency, when asked about some of his own party who were giving farmers the Naxal and Khalistani labels, Singh said: “I think those accusations against farmers … I don’t know who said what … It should not be done by anyone. Kisan kisan hai (a farmer is a farmer). From the bottom of our hearts, we express our deepest respect for farmers. At all times, our heads bow in respect for the farmers of India. They are our annadata. “
“Whenever there has been a period of economic crisis in the country, if there is someone who has taken on the task of stabilizing the economy, it has been the farmer. Even in times of economic recession and economic recession. Talk to economists, they will tell you this. Our farmers are the force of our country’s economy, agriculture its backbone, ”he said.
“India can never forget the sacrifices made by our Sikh brothers in defense of national pride. You can never forget. And our Sikh brothers have contributed greatly to protecting the culture of India. His contribution in defense of the pride of India, the culture of India was there in the past, it is today and it will be tomorrow, ”he said.
Reiterating that the three farm laws have been drawn up for farmers, he said they should wait for their implementation to see the results.
Singh, a former agriculture minister, said: “My suggestion to farmers is that there should be a logical debate on every clause in the farm laws. If they feel that there is something that goes against the interests of farmers, the government will do what is necessary to address their problems.
“The point is that the three agricultural bills have been drawn up with the interests of farmers in mind. Being one of the most important members of the Cabinet, I have had the opportunity to interact with Prime Minister Modi on various issues. I have seen him express his concern about the problems of farmers. Even before the 2014 election campaign, I had thought about doubling the income of farmers, ”he said.
Singh said “some forces” have tried to create misunderstandings about the laws. “We will find a solution to the problem. I have seen the laws and I am aware of the problems of farmers. Farmers should at least observe the implementation of these laws for two years as an experiment. We will be willing to make any necessary modifications if necessary. If farmers want the experts to talk to the government about amendments to certain clauses, we are completely flexible, “he said.
He rejected the allegation that the government has been insensitive to farmers. “It is not about being insensitive when it comes to farmers. Our farmers are holding demonstrations and I am not the only one suffering. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is also hurt, “he said.
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