Involvement of ‘other ideologies’ delaying resolution, says govt

ASSERTS THAT THE NEW LAWS ARE IN THE INTEREST OF THE FARMING COMMUNITY AND OBSTACLES DO COME WHENEVER GOOD MEASURES ARE TAKEN

NEW DELHI: Ahead of the crucial tenth round of talks with representatives of protesting farmers on controversial new farm laws, the Centre on Monday said both sides want to resolve the long-continuing stalemate at the earliest but it was getting delayed due to involvement of people of other ideologies.

Asserting that the new farm laws are in the interest of the farming community, the government said obstacles do come whenever good things or measures are taken and it is taking longer to resolve the issue as farmers’ leaders want a solution their own way.

The tenth round of talks between the Centre and 41 protesting farmers’ unions is now scheduled for Wednesday. Also, a Supreme Court-appointed panel to resolve the crisis is also scheduled to hold its first meeting on Tuesday.

Minister of state for agriculture Parshottam Rupala said: “It is different when farmers talk to us directly. When leaders get involved, then it becomes difficult. There could have been early solution had the discussions were held with farmers directly.” Since people of different ideologies have entered into the protest, they want a solution in their own way, he said.

“Both sides want a solution, but they have different points of view and hence it is taking more time. But a definite solution will emerge,” he noted.

Addressing a virtual event, Union agriculture minister Narendra Singh Tomar reiterated that the three farm laws will be beneficial for farmers.

“These laws were expected earlier but the previous government could not implement because of pressure. The Modi government that took a bold step.”