As the protests over the new farm laws entered the 76th day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday addressed the issue in the Rajya Sabha. The word 'andolanjeevi' (professional protesters), used by the PM, has come in for sharp criticism from the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM), for allegedly being derogatory to farmers.
Besides, responding to PM Narendra Modi appeal on ending the stir and resume the dialogue, the SKM leaders said the government can choose the next date for another round of talks.
The SKM in a statement said that "We condemn the charge made by the PM and we would like to remind him that it was andolanejeevis who helped India break free from colonial rulers and so we are proud of being andolanjeevis."
"It is the BJP and its forefathers who have never participated in an agitation against the British. They were always afraid of people's movements and that is why they are afraid of people's movements even now."
As Prime Minister Modi once again spoke about resolving the impasse over the farm laws through dialogue, the SKM said if the government still accepts their demands, farmers would be happy to return to till the fields. It is the government's stubborn attitude that is prolonging the agitation and giving rise to further and activism andolanjeevis.
“We are ready for the next round of talks and the government should tell them the date and time of the meeting”, they said.
Speaking about MSP on Monday, PM Modi has said MSP will continue, however, the farmers body said, "Hollow statements on MSP won't help the farmers in any manner and such meaningless statements had been made in the past as well. Farmers will only gain in a meaningful manner if a legal guarantee is given on MSP for all crops”.