New Delhi. Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, met representatives of several farmer organizations in the Parliament House complex on Friday. In the meeting, a possible national level movement against the trade agreement with America was discussed.
During the meeting, Rahul Gandhi said that this trade agreement has opened the doors for agricultural imports and other crops may also be affected in the coming times. According to the Congress, farmer leaders expressed deep concern about the livelihood of farmers cultivating maize, soybean, cotton, fruits and dry fruits.
Leaders of which organizations were present
Sukhpal Singh Khaira of All India Kisan Congress, Advocate Ashok Balhara of Bharatiya Kisan Mazdoor Union (Haryana), Baldev S. of Bharatiya Kisan Union (Krantikari) were present in the meeting. Jeera, Kedar Sirohi of Aam Kisan Union and Gurmaneet S of Kisan Mazdoor Morcha (India). Representatives of other organizations including Mangat participated. Farmer leaders and Rahul Gandhi reportedly discussed the need for a larger national movement to protest against the agreement and protect the livelihoods of farmers and farm labourers.
A day earlier, Rahul Gandhi had accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi that the government was compromising the interests of farmers through the India-US trade agreement. He said that whether the government files an FIR against him or brings a breach of privilege motion, he will continue to raise the voice of the farmers. In political circles this meeting is being seen as the prelude to a possible bigger movement. However, no formal program or date of movement has been announced yet.