Karnal farmers protest BJP-JJP leaders’ photos on foodgrain bags

KARNAL: Hundreds of farmers held protests at different locations in Karnal on Thursday against the printing of photographs of BJP and JJP leaders on foodgrain bags being distributed to BPL families under the ongoing Annapurna Utsav.

“Why did the Prime Minister and the Haryana Chief Minister get their photographs printed on foodgrain bags when the grains has been purchased from taxpayers’ money?” asked Jagdeep Singh Aulakh, a farm leader from Karnal.

“Distribution of ration is going on for past several years but the BJP is trying to use it for political gains and spent lakhs on printing photos of the PM and the CM on the bags,” he added.

Another farm leader Rampal Chahal said, “We are not against distribution of foodgrain but printing of photographs of BJP leaders on the bags because they do not have any concern for farmers. The BJP-JJP is trying to get cheap publicity.”

The farmers said they are protesting on call of the Samyukt Kisan Morcha and the agitation will continue to protest for repeal of three farm laws.

High drama was also witnessed in Gharaunda as farmers protested the visit of BJP MLA Harvinder Kalyan, who was going to distribute ration.

Chautala slams govt over Annapurna Utsav

ROHTAK: Former Haryana CM and INLD patriarch OP Chautala slammed the state government over the two-day Annapurna Utsav being organised under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Ann Yojana. Chautala said the government is making fun of the poor.

“The government has printed pictures of PM Modi, Khattar and his deputy Dushyant Chautala on foodgrain bags. These pictures cost Rs 100 per bag while the wheat costs Rs 96 per sack,” Chautala added.