Senior Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader Bikram Singh Majithia today said the Bhagwant Mann led Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government had failed farmers, Arhtiyas and labour in mandis across the State. Talking stock of paddy purchase in mandis here, Mr Bikram Majithia said it was most painful to see that the Bhagwant Mann led “Badlav wali sarkar” had failed to purchase paddy in Mandis even after the lapse of 11 days since the start of the procurement season.
He said farmers were being forced to camp in Mandi’s to sell their produce. “With paddy not being procured on MSP many farmers are selling their produce at lesser rates to private traders”. He said it was shocking that Bhagwant Mann had exhorted farmers to produce Basmati because it consumed less water but had done nothing to ensure a remunerative price to farmers.
“This year Basmati is selling at Rs. 2500 to Rs. 2800 per quintal against the normal price of Rs 4,500 to Rs 5,000 per quintal”. Mr Majithia said the AAP government had failed to take up the issue of lifting of last year’s stock of paddy with the Union government. “Due to this rice mills are full to capacity and are unable to accommodate any paddy”.
The SAD leader said all those involved in the procurement process including arhtiyas, labour, farmers and rice millers were suffering due to the indecisiveness of the Bhagwant Mann government. He said the situation could take an alarming turn and jeopardise the entire ‘Mandikaran’ process in the State which would sound a death knell to the agricultural economy.
Interacting with farmers, Mr. Majithia said there was practically no government on the ground. “Farmers are not even being provided basic facilities in Mandis”. He said instead of indulging in theatrics and cheap tamashas the chief minister should review the situation and ensure smooth conduct of procurement besides removing the grievances of Arhtiyas and labour.
He also appealed to the centre to look into the demand of Arhatiyas besides ensuring swift transfer of paddy from Punjab to free up rice shellers. EOM.