S.A.S. Nagar: Senior Congress leader and former Punjab Health Minister Balbir Singh Sidhu stated that the Punjab government must take notice of the overwhelming protests following a massive tractor march today by farmers throughout the state. He urged the government to withdraw what he described as an anti-farmer land pooling policy.Mr. Sidhu emphasized that the march, which saw thousands of farmers participating, delivered a clear message that they will not rest until the anti farmer land pooling policy is repealed. The anger, determination, and enthusiasm exhibited by the farmers indicate their readiness to engage in any form of protest to achieve this goal. He noted that the atmosphere in Punjab is reminiscent of the long struggle against the three controversial agricultural laws imposed by the Central Government. If the Punjab Government does not rescind this detrimental policy, it could lead to an indefinite protest or road blockade. He warned that the government would be held accountable for any loss to the state and for the hardships faced by its people.
The former minister questioned the rationale behind the government’s intention to acquire 65,000 acres of fertile land, especially considering that numerous flats and plots remain vacant in cities like Mohali and Ludhiana. He pointed out that, despite thousands of vacant plots in industrial parks across the state, the government recently permitted commercial activity on these plots and even allowed the division of larger industrial plots due to a lack of sales and development. In light of this, he asked what justification there could be for reserving 21,000 acres of fertile land for an industrial park.
The Congress leader accused the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) of harboring ulterior motives, suggesting they aim to take land from farmers at no cost, only to hand it over to multinational corporations, big builders, and industrial houses. He claimed this would enable them to raise significant funds for ensuing elections in Bihar, Gujarat, and Punjab. He mentioned that after losing control of Delhi, the AAP has turned its focus to Punjab, seeking to gather money for upcoming elections.