Mysuru: Farmers’ leader Kurubur Shanthakumar accused political parties of insincerely addressing farmers’ concerns and attempting to sow discord among farmers’ organizations, asserting that they are undermining the farming community for their gains, according to thehindu.
Speaking at a farmers’ meeting, Shanthakumar criticized political parties for engaging in vote bank politics as elections draw near, neglecting the hardships faced by farmers during a severe drought and sidestepping the crucial issue of farm loan waivers.
Shanthakumar questioned why the Telangana government could waive farm loans and the central government could consider waiving substantial loans for industrialists, yet the loans of state farmers remained untouched. He emphasized the need for political leaders to address the challenges faced by farmers and prioritize their well-being.
Highlighting an ongoing issue, Shanthakumar pointed out that sugar factories were not adhering to the prescribed additional cost of ₹150 per tonne of sugarcane, despite an order following a 39-day protest by sugarcane farmers. He urged the government to either compel the factories to fulfill this payment or make the payment directly to the farmers.
Expressing concern over farmers receiving notices from banks for loan recovery, Shanthakumar noted that the drought situation has led to farmers migrating in search of livelihoods. He stressed the urgency of organizing a movement for farmers’ rights to address their grievances.
Demanding amendments to loan policies, Shanthakumar called for zero-interest crop loans for farmers. Additionally, he called for the repeal of the Land Reforms Amendment Act and APMC Amendment Act, which, he claimed, were promised to farmers by the State government upon coming to power.
