Representatives of the central government and farmers met for the eighth time on Friday, but the talks proved to be indecisive once again. While the farmers refuse to budge at anything less than repeal of the laws, the government is also adamant and insisting that there is scope for amendments but not repeal of the three newly passed farm laws.
Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar, minister of state Som Prakash, and Piyush Goyal representated the central government in the meeting that was held in Delhi Friday afternoon. Mr Tomar said after the meeting, “The discussions today were related to the three laws, but no decision could be reached. The government repeatedly requested the unions to suggest an alternative other than the repeal, and the government would consider it. But even after a long discussion, no alternative was presented. Therefore, the discussion was adjourned today. They will discuss among themselves. We will also discuss among ourselves. I hope we will be able to find a solution at the next meeting on 15th.”
However, Punjab general secretary of the All India Kisan Sabha Baldev Singh Nihalgarh called the talks “very disappointing” and told reporters, “I have been part of all eight meetings, but today’s meeting was very disappointing. Discussions did not take place very well. The government side gave two suggestions — go to the Supreme Court or form a small committee, which we have already rejected. We will not go to the court… We have told the government that our agitation will continue.”
Kulwant Singh, president of Jamhoori Kisan Sabha, also said: “I wonder why the government is so keen to wait until the Supreme Court hearing… They even suggested that we approach the court for repeal, and with day-to-day hearing, we can get a quick decision. They said they can’t repeal the laws as it will set a wrong precedent.”
Earlier, Farmers conducted a tractor march on Friday near Delhi border. It was “a rehearsal” of the parade that they have announced to hold on January 26.
Meanwhile, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said the government did not have the right intentions, and was simply dodging the entire issue by assigning new dates for further talks.
Congress president Sonia Gandhi is also likely to meet leaders of farmer unions.