Government has turned blind eye to farmers

BANGALORE: “Farmers are living in pitiable conditions, thanks to the pro-capitalist policies of the state and Central governments. While prices of agricultural products are increasing, farmers are not receiving adequate subsidies for their agricultural produce. Hence, their financial conditions are forcing them to commit to suicide,” said Asit Bhattacharya, Politburo member of the Socialist Unity Centre of India (Communist), SUCI(C). He was speaking at the inauguration of a state conference on Raitha Krushi Karmikara Sanghatane (RKS) in the city on Thursday. He said, “Modernisation of agriculture will augment production. But, such an attempt will deprive farmers of jobs. Then, they will look for jobs in industries, which is not feasible, as crisis-ridden capitalism cannot undertake industrialisation.” Further, he added that poor, middle and landless farmers were left only with the option of involving themselves in protracted movements to break away from these conditions. He said, “As you fight for your rights, your movement should overthrow capitalist system, which is the source of all problems.” K Radhakrishna, secretary, and member of SUCI(C) said, “The government which is giving tax benefits to big capitalists has turned a blind eye towards farmers. The state government took an oath to work for the welfare of farmers, but has grabbed vast agricultural lands. The land grabbing at Gadag for POSCO plant against the interests of the farmers is a testimony to this.” Farmers, who had come from more than 20 districts, took a procession from Chikka Lalbagh to Banappa Park. Resolutions concerning the farmers’ issues will be discussed at a session in NGO Bhavan on Friday.