Lakhimpur: Priyanka attends 'antim ardas' of deceased farmers but stopped from speaking at event

Lakhimpur Kheri: The Samyukt Kisan Morcha on Tuesday allowed Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra to attend the 'Antim Ardas' (funeral ceremony) of the four farmers killed in the October 3, Lakhimpur Kheri violence but refused to allow her to speak at the event.

Although the Morcha thanked Priyanka Gandhi and her party for their support to the cause but politely refused to permit her to speak to avoid any political dispute.

Farmer leaders have also warned that they will not allow politicians to share their platform. There was heavy police force deployed in Tikonia area in view of the programme.

Several farmer leaders along with Rakesh Tikait were on the podium at the Antim Ardas.

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra of Congress sat among the common people and joined the prayer.

However when she expressed her desire to address the farmers from the stage, the farmer leaders flatly refused. Earlier, shr paid floral tribute to the four slain farmers.

Thousands of farmers joined the final funeral ceremony organized by Morcha at the Diwan Hall, which was decorated with flowers.

The families of the farmers killed in the Lakhimpur Kheri incident were also present in the Antim Ardas. (UNI)