Congress Commits to MSP Guarantee for Farmers Amid Alleged Repression by Modi Government
Amidst escalating tensions as farmers faced obstacles in reaching Delhi to voice their grievances, the Congress party made a significant announcement on Tuesday. They declared that if elected to power in 2024, minimum support price (MSP) would be enshrined in law.
Originally intended for inclusion in their election manifesto, the Congress hastened their pledge due to the widespread outcry over the distressing scenes of farmers encountering concrete barriers, barbed wires blocking their entry into the capital, roads embedded with nails, and tear gas used to disperse protesting crowds by BJP-led governments.
Speaking at a Congress workers’ convention in Ambikapur, Chhattisgarh, Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi assured that a Congress government would address all farmer demands, including the implementation of the Swaminathan committee recommendations.
Kharge remarked, “This marks a historic milestone for farmers. The Congress is committed to implementing the Swaminathan Commission recommendations, which will positively impact the lives of 15 crore farming families. This embodies the cornerstone of justice under the Congress regime.”
Rahul Gandhi echoed this sentiment in a social media post, stating, “The Congress has undertaken a momentous commitment. We will enact an MSP law based on the Swaminathan Commission recommendations, benefiting fifteen crore families.”
At the Ambikapur gathering, Kharge criticized Prime Minister Modi’s policies towards farmers, highlighting the disparity between promises and actions. He condemned the use of force against farmers and questioned the democratic values of such actions.
Meanwhile, Congress General Secretary Randeep Singh Surjewala expressed unequivocal support for the farmers’ protest, condemning what he described as the Modi government’s harsh and unjust treatment. He likened the situation at Delhi’s borders to a war zone and called for dialogue and the fulfillment of promises made to farmers.
The Congress’s swift response to the farmer’s plight underscores their commitment to addressing agricultural concerns and ensuring justice for the farming community, amidst growing discontent and accusations of government repression.