Use of water cannons on farmers unfortunate, says BJP leader Manoranjan Kalia

Tribune News Service

Jalandhar, December 17

BJP senior leader and former Cabinet Minister Manoranjan Kalia today said the use of water cannons on farmers by the ML Khattar government was an unfortunate step and should have been avoided.

Kalia appreciated the farmers for keeping their protest ‘apolitical’ and also for keeping religion at bay. While backing the new farm laws, Kalia exhorted farmers to accept the government’s offer.

“I appreciate the farm organisations for keeping the protest apolitical and their willingness to engage in a dialogue. The Central Government has held six meetings with the farm groups during which seven amendments to laws have been offered in writing. It is also willing to give the assurance on MSP in writing,” Kalia said.

On the use of water cannons on farmers and creation of obstacles on the way to Delhi, Kalia said: “I don’t approve of water cannons’ use on farmers during winters. Elderly farmers have gotten sick, some have lost lives. It is unfortunate….”

On attempts to defame farmers’ stir, the BJP leader said, “I laud farmers for keeping the protest apolitical and focused on core issues. Punjab has borne the time of terrorism. Punjabis have rejected Khalistan and there in no issue now. But some people with bad intentions abroad keep trying to foment trouble. I believe the farmer organisations and the government are both very cautious about this.” He expressed grief over the suicide of Sant Baba Ram Singh at the Singhu border.

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