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Press statement by MEA on recent comments by foreign individuals and entities on the farmers’ protests

Posted on: February 04, 2021 | Back | Print

Press Statement on recent comments by foreign individuals andentities on the farmers’ protests
February 03, 2021

"The Parliament of India, after a full debate and discussion, passed reformist legislation relating to theagricultural sector. These reforms give expanded market access and provided greater flexibility tofarmers. They also pave the way for economically and ecologically sustainable farming.A very small section of farmers in parts of India have some reservations about these reforms. Respectingthe sentiments of the protestors, the Government of India has initiated a series of talks with theirrepresentatives. Union Ministers have been part of the negotiations, and eleven rounds of talks havealready been held. The Government has even offered to keep the laws on hold, an offer iterated by noless than the Prime Minister of India.

Yet, it is unfortunate to see vested interest groups trying to enforce their agenda on these protests, andderail them. This was egregiously witnessed on January 26, India’s Republic Day. A cherished nationalcommemoration, the anniversary of the inauguration of the Constitution of India, was besmirched, andviolence and vandalism took place in the Indian capital.

Some of these vested interest groups have also tried to mobilise international support against India.Instigated by such fringe elements, Mahatma Gandhi statues have been desecrated in parts of the world.This is extremely disturbing for India and for civilised society everywhere.

Indian police forces have handled these protests with utmost restraint. It may be noted that hundreds ofmen and women serving in the police have been physically attacked, and in some cases stabbed andseriously wounded.
We would like to emphasise that these protests must be seen in the context of India’s democratic ethosand polity, and the efforts of the Government and the concerned farmer groups to resolve the impasse.

Before rushing to comment on such matters, we would urge that the facts be ascertained, and a properunderstanding of the issues at hand be undertaken. The temptation of sensationalist social mediahashtags and comments, especially when resorted to by celebrities and others, is neither accurate norresponsible. "

 

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New Delhi
February 03, 2021