Date:05/12/2005 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2005/12/05/stories/2005120503291500.htm

National

Consult farmers: V.P. Singh

Special Correspondent

To launch `Kisan Jagran Yatra' on December 7

V.P. Singh

NEW DELHI: The former Prime Minister, V.P. Singh, on Sunday sought a permanent forum for consultation with farmers on all issues affecting them. He criticised the United Progressive Alliance Government for not holding a discussion with farmers about the coming Hong Kong WTO meet.

At a press conference here, Mr. Singh said a `Kisan Jagran Yatra' would be launched — to help farmers get a better deal — from Allahabad on December 7. Mr. Singh, along with Rashtriya Lok Dal chief Ajit Singh, favoured an amendment to the Constitution, making parliamentary ratification a pre-requisite for implementation of any international agreement. Such an amendment was necessary, as it would facilitate transparency and discussion. The national interest would not be prejudiced in the eventuality of the country honouring its commitment and other parties dithering or failing, Mr. Singh said.

Both Mr. V.P. Singh and Mr. Ajit Singh, who announced his decision to join forces with the former Prime Minister to espouse the cause of farmers and weavers, voiced their concern over the agriculture market being thrown open under WTO without abolishing the subsidies given by the developed countries. They also wanted enactment of a comprehensive law against communal/group violence.

A struggle for justice

Mr. Ajit Singh said it would be highly dangerous to open the agriculture market. India would hardly gain as it would have little scope to boost its agricultural exports and its farmers would not be able to meet the competition.

Since agriculture was not remunerative and in the wake of high input costs, a sizeable section of farmers wanted to leave farming and exercise other options. Hence, tariff was the only protection for them. The `yatra' would wage a ceaseless Gaon bachao, desh bachao struggle for justice to the farmers.

Mr. V.P. Singh said a large number of NGOs were joining the yatra, which would be addressed by him at half a dozen places. It would end at Faizabad after passing through various parts of eastern Uttar Pradesh. Mr. Ajit Singh would also participate. CPI (M) Polit Bureau member Sitaram Yechury and CPI leader D. Raja would take part on the opening day.