In a show of solidarity with the ongoing farmers' struggle, Punjab Vidhan Sabha Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan on Thursday met farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who has been on a hunger strike for 31 days at the Khanauri border. Sandhwan, accompanied by several Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLAs, including Narinder Kaur Bharaj and Kulwant Singh Pandori, condemned the Centre’s failure to address farmers' concerns, emphasizing that the fight for farmers' rights is not just for Punjab, but for the entire nation.
Sandhwan, speaking after the meeting, lauded Dallewal's unwavering commitment to humanity and the welfare of farmers, saying, “Dallewal Sahib is leading a fight for farmers across India, not just for Punjab. Guaranteeing MSP is crucial not just for Punjab’s prosperity but for the nation’s food security.” He expressed deep concern over Dallewal's deteriorating health due to the prolonged hunger strike, warning the Central Government to refrain from testing the patience of Punjabis.
Highlighting the sacrifices of farmers for the nation, Sandhwan urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to listen to their demands. “Farmers, whose ancestors fought for India's freedom and whose children continue to safeguard our borders, deserve to be heard. Ignoring their struggles is akin to ignoring the nation itself,” he stressed.
Sandhwan criticized the Modi Government’s approach, accusing it of pushing policies that benefit corporate giants at the expense of farmers. He pointed to the disparity in government subsidies for farmers, contrasting the situation in the United States, where only one percent of the population farms but receives significant subsidies.
Also pledging unwavering support from AAP to the farmers’ cause, Sandhwan emphasized that the party is actively working both at the party and government levels to push for farmers’ rights. “Our Finance Minister Harpal Cheema and Cabinet Minister Laljit Singh Bhullar have been engaging with central officials. As Speaker, I will ensure this issue remains at the forefront in the Vidhan Sabha,” he affirmed.
The Speaker concluded by calling on the public to recognize the farmers' struggle as a national issue, urging collective action to safeguard the interests of Punjab’s farmers and the future of the nation.
