The ministry for external affairs issued a statement, against ‘vested interest groups’, condemning them for trying to ‘enforce agenda on the protests. Though it did not name anyone, the statement came hours after American singer Rihanna and Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg tweeted and extended their support for the ongoing farmers’ protests.
The statement read as, “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. Some of these vested interest groups have also tried to mobilise international support against India/I. Instigated by such fringe elements, Mahatma Gandhi statues have been desecrated in parts of the world…”
It further said, “Before rushing to comment on such matters, we would urge that facts be ascertained and a proper understanding of the issues at hand be undertaken. The temptation of sensationalist social media hashtags and comments, especially when resorted to be celebrities and others, is neither accurate nor responsible.”
Rihanna stirred an online war when she tweeted Wednesday morning, “why aren’t we talking about this?! #FarmersProtest,” as she shared a news item about the government stopping internet in few districts in response to violence during the protests.
Thunberg also wrote, ” We stand in solidarity with the #FarmersProtest in India.”