As some celebrities tweeted their support towards the ongoing farmers’ agitation, the Ministry of External Affairs on Wednesday said that it is “unfortunate” that some vested groups are trying to enforce their agenda on these protests, and trying to derail them.
“It is unfortunate to see vested interest groups trying to enforce their agenda on these protests, and derail them. This was egregiously witnessed on January 26, India’s Republic Day. A cherished national commemoration, the anniversary of the inauguration of the Constitution of India, was besmirched, and violence and vandalism took place in the Indian capital,” the statement said.
“Some of these vested interest groups have also tried to mobilise international support against India. Instigated by such fringe elements, Mahatma Gandhi statues have been desecrated in parts of the world. This is extremely disturbing for India and for civilised society everywhere,” it said.
Stressing that a very small section of the farming in parts of India have some reservations about these reforms, the Ministry of External Affairs stated that the government has initiated a series of talks with their representatives. Union Ministers have been part of the negotiations, and eleven rounds of talks have already been held. The Government has even offered to keep the laws on hold, an offer iterated by no less than the Prime Minister of India.
On Tuesday, Singer Rihanna tweeted a CNN article on the farmers protests in India asking, “why aren’t we talking about this?! #FarmersProtest” This was followed by a tweet from climate activist Greta Thunberg.
The MEA in a statement said, “The temptation of sensationalist social media hashtags and comments, especially when resorted to by celebrities and others, is neither accurate nor responsible.”
“The Parliament of India, after a full debate and discussion, passed reformist legislation relating to the agricultural sector. These reforms give expanded market access and provided greater flexibility to farmers. They also pave the way for economically and ecologically sustainable farming,” it said.
