Farmers call for statewide protests demanding rollback of Market Act

Vijayawada – Andhra Pradesh: The AP Farmers’ Union Coordination Committee has called for statewide protests on February 23, demanding the immediate withdrawal of the new Market Act introduced by the BJP-led central government. Addressing the media in Vijayawada, convener Vadde Shobhanadhishwar Rao criticized the government for its anti-farmer policies and urged farmers to intensify their agitation.

Farmers condemn anti-farmer policies

Vadde Shobhanadhishwar Rao, speaking at a press conference held at Gandhinagar Press Club on Tuesday, accused the central government of favoring corporates with the New Market Act, Digital Agricultural Mission, and New Cooperative Act. He called upon farmers to burn Xerox copies of the Market Act as a symbolic protest.

The convener strongly condemned the recent attacks on farmer leaders at the Shambhu border near Delhi and warned the central government to take responsibility if any harm befell Samyukta Kisan Morcha leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal. He urged the government to hold talks with SKM leaders and stop the ongoing “crackdown” against farmers, including the unconditional release of those arrested.

Demand for promised reforms

Farmer leaders alleged that the Modi government was backtracking on promises made to the SKM and instead introducing new policies benefiting corporations. Highlighting their persistent demands, they emphasized the need for ‘C2+50 Support Price Act’. ‘Loan Waiver Act’. and ‘Pension for Farmers, Tenant Farmers, and Agricultural Workers’.

The leaders reaffirmed their resolve to intensify struggles for these crucial reforms, which are vital for the survival and dignity of farming communities.

Plight of farmers and coordinated efforts

The meeting earlier brought together leaders from various farmers’ unions across the state, reflecting a unified front against anti-farmer policies. Leaders present at the press conference included Y Kesava Rao (APRS), KVV Prasad (AP Farmers’ Union), Dr. Kolla Rajamohan (Nallamada Farmers’ Union), Y Krishnaiah (APRS), D Harinath (AIKM), Mareedu Prasad Babu (Kisan Sangatan), Marreddy Venkata Reddy (AIKF), U Ganiraju (AIKMS), M Ramakrishna (IFTU). Jonna Sivashankara Rao (APRS).

District leaders Malnidi Yalamanda Rao (AP Rythu Sangam), P Anjaneyulu (APRS), and Kasani Ganesh Babu (AIKF) also participated, underscoring the widespread discontent among farmers.

Protests in District Centers on 23

The committee has called for protests in all district centers of Andhra Pradesh on February 23 to amplify their demands. Farmers were urged to participate actively and voice their opposition to the policies perceived as detrimental to their livelihoods.

The press conference and subsequent meeting showcased the determination of the AP Farmers’ Union Coordination Committee to fight for farmers’ rights and ensure that the central government is held accountable for its actions.