A day after the farmers' protest was marred by violence, senior Congress leader Siddaramaiah on Wednesday alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi was in no mood to repeal the "anti-farmer" legislation only to keep his word given to Adani and Ambani.
"Narendra Modi boasts of a 56 inch chest. But he should also have a heart that can empathise with the farmers. He will not withdraw the laws as he has already given his word to Adani and Ambani, who are dictating terms to the Centre. This government is a slave of the corporates," alleged Siddaramaiah, who dared the Centre to name the "terrorists" if any, who took part in the farmers protest at Delhi.
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"Let the government name the terrorists or Khalistanis who were in the protest. No one should indulge in loose talks about the farmers of this country. Now, what was the Central Intelligence wing doing," he demanded to know.
Calling the Centre's earlier negotiations with the farmers as a mere "eye wash", Siddaramaiah said, "This is the failure of the government. The farmers say the farm laws are black laws and detrimental to the farming community. They have been demanding for repeal of these laws and are protesting for the last two months. The government holding eleven negotiation meetings was only an eye wash. Are the farmers crazy to stage protest for so long in the chilling weather?."
Former Karnataka chief minister and JD(S) leader H. D. Kumaraswamy said the violent incidents on the Republic Day during the farmers protest was totally "avoidable" if only the ruling party had been more responsible.
"The incidents have drawn global attention and put a blot on India's image. However, it is never too late for finding an amicable solution," said Kumaraswamy.
