Anna Hazare threatens to go on hunger strike if farmers’ demands are not met

New Delhi: Amid the ongoing farmers’ protest against the three farm laws in the country, renowned social activist Anna Hazare has threatened to go on a hunger strike if the farmers’ demands are not met.

In a letter to Union Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar, Mr Hazare wrote that he ended his fast in on February 5, 2019, on the request of then Union agriculture minister Radha Mohan Singh.

He said that he was given written assurance which has not been fulfilled so far.

The social activist’s demands include the implementation of the recommendations made by MS Swaminathan Commission, which includes granting autonomy to the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP) and implementing the Minimum Support Price (MSP).

Mr Hazare said after considering all these demands, a High Powered Committee was assured to be formed immediately to take the right decision. The committee will consist of Union Minister of State for Agriculture, Niti Aayog member Ramesh Chand, among others. This committee will submit its report before October 30, 2019.

Mr Hazare said as per the report of this committee, the central government will take appropriate action on the above issues. Such written assurance was given on February 5, 2019 by then Union agriculture minister Radha Mohan Singh and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis after coming to Ralegaon Siddhi.

“Since nothing has been done yet, therefore, I am thinking to resume the hunger strike which was called off in 2019,” Mr Hazare said in his letter to Mr Tomar.

“Since this (promise) has not been fulfilled. I have started thinking about relaunching the hunger strike. I will inform you about date and place of the agitation,” wrote Hazare.

The farmer’s protest against Centre’s three farm laws entered its 20th day today, the demonstration has intensified with more and more farmers gathering at the Delhi borders, mainly, Singhu, Tikri and Gazipur.

They also demonstrated at various toll plazas across the northern states, mostly in Punjab.

Besides being seen in front of several private centres and district offices, the farmer groups in Punjab were also seen standing in the corner of the highway stretched across GT Road and several other points with their union flags and banners for masses to see. (UNI)