Harmony maintained by farmers gives lesson to society, say doctors

Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, December 15

Teams of the Indian Doctors for Peace and Development (IDPD) formed to give medical care to farmers at the Singhu and Tikri borders today said, “Love and harmony maintained by farmers in over a yearlong agitation is a lesson for society to maintain unity in diversity and relations among nations.”

During an interactive session organised by the IDPD on “Medical care to farmers during historical movement - Experiences lessons and tasks ahead”, an IDPD member said, “The farmers’ victory has shown that no force or individual, howsoever powerful it may be, is invincible.”

Dr Arun Mitra of the IDPD said medical teams visited protesting farmers 28 times and organised over 50 camps.

“It was hard times for farmers, but they braved through several odds. In harsh situations living in trailers, trucks and makeshift arrangements, life is difficult both from physical and mental point of view,” said Dr Mitra.

“Living away from their families for days altogether in uncertainties leads to several mental problems. In such situations hygienic conditions are poor and basic amenities are lacking, which accentuate health issues. That is why a large number of people had abdominal, chest, joint and even cardiac problems. Many of these increased because of lack of timely care,” Dr Mitra added.

“But, it is to great satisfaction that the farmers’ movement has succeeded. Their success has paved the way for movements for justice and equality,” Dr Mitra added.