Maha outfits seek probe into Delhi violence, call it plot to foil protest

MUMBAI: Social outfits in Maharashtra, which have been supporting the farmers’ protest against new farm laws, have condemned the January 26 Delhi violence but reiterated their support to the agitating farmers. They are now demanding a detailed inquiry into what happened on January 26 and want the guilty to be punished.

The Jan Aandolanaanchi Sangharsh Samiti (Maharashtra) blamed anti-social elements for indulging in violence. “We demand that there should be a proper investigation regarding this incident. Such anti-social elements need to be identified, and appropriate legal action should be taken,” read a statement by the samiti. It said that the farmers have been protesting peacefully from the last two months, and efforts were being made to defame the protests. Kamgar Sanghatana Samyukta Kruti Samiti (Maharashtra) has called the violence a Central government conspiracy to break the struggle.

“How can anyone even enter the Red Fort when the whole area is turned into a fortress on such an important day?” questioned Vishwas Utagi, co-convenor of the samiti. “The whole thing is suspicious as one faction started its march before time, deviated from the given route and then indulged in violence,” said Utagi.

Satyashodhak Shetkari Sabha (SSS) said it does not stand with those farmers who indulged in

violence. “It is an attempt to divert attention from the real struggle and spoil the name of a genuine agitation,” said Kishore Dhamale, SSS.

On January 26, a tractor march was organised by the farmers that got derailed and violence erupted in the Red Fort area.