NEW DELHI: Talks on Saturday, the fifth between farmer leaders and the government since the countrywide protests began against anti-agricultural laws passed by Modi govt in September, fell flat once again. The meeting was called by Union Agricultural Minister, Narendra Singh Tomar with participation from 35 farm leaders. The government has been unable to provide answers against the farm laws and electricity usage Bill, said Kissan Sabha General Secretary Hanan Mollah post the talks.
At the meeting, when no consensus was found despite passage of five hours, the farm leaders protested by staying mum. The government arrogance is motivated by corporate interests, the leaders pointed out. Minister Tomar said the government would need more time to consider the issues and hold high-level meeting. Another round of talks shall be called on 9th December, he added. A meeting was held at Prime Minister’s official residence.
Meanwhile, following failure a fifth time, the farmers’ representatives said there is no use pursuing talks again. The pro-corporate laws that seek to exploit farmers must go, they said in voice and vowed to intensify their protests further, by blocking more highways and occupying toll plazas across the country on the strike day of 8th December.
