A frontrunner leading farmers group that is playing a major role in the farmers’ protest has been accused of accepting foreign funds without proper clearances. The Bharatiya Kisan Union (Ugrahan) - one of the largest and powerful unions in Punjab has been issued a notice by a bank and to get mandatory registration.
Sukhdev Singh Kokri Kalan, the general secretary of the group, has said he was summoned by the officials of Punjab and Sindh bank in Punjab's Moga district and told about a mail from the forex department; that in the past two months the group has received ₹ 8 to 9 lakhs. This money has been sent by Punjabis living abroad, who regularly donate for social causes.
Mr Singh said that the group will take necessary action once they receive written communications from the bank.
Joginder Ugraha, the chief of BKU (Ugrahan) said, "NRIs who have been sending us funds are those who are Punjabis and living abroad. They're just helping. What's the problem with that? It is their protest too. We're not taking help from Arthiyas.”
The Centre has implemented laws about foreign donations tougher over the years and has also captured those multiple non-profits for violating rules.
Also Read: Punjab medical staff extend support to farmers protesting at Singhu border
However, Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh said the application of tax laws on farmers groups was a strategy of the Centre to break the farmers' protest against the contentious farm laws.
Earlier this week, tax raids were carried at the premises of several prominent arthityas of Punjab. Arthiyas or commission agents have been actively supporting the protest.