The ministry of external affairs on Wednesday responded to a flurry of comments by celebrities in the West on the ongoing farmers' protests against three contentious farm laws in India.
Pop icon Rihanna on Tuesday shared a news article on the suspension of internet services around New Delhi. After Rihanna, a slew of celebrities such as environmental activist Greta Thunberg, activist-lawyer Meena Harris, who is the niece of US Vice President Kamala Harris, and former adult entertainer Mia Khalifa have tweeted in support of the farmers' protests. The tweets have triggered both trends in favour of the protesters and also against these celebrities.
The ministry of external affairs noted the farm laws were passed after “full debate and discussion” in Parliament. The ministry of external affairs stated, "A very small section of farmers in parts of India have some reservations about these reforms. Respecting the sentiments of the protesters, the Government of India has initiated a series of talks with their representatives. Union ministers have been part of the negotiations, and eleven rounds of talks have already been held..."
The ministry of external affairs' statement referred to the violence during a tractor rally by farmers on Republic Day and alleged “vested interests” were attempting to enforce their interests via the agitation.
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"We would like to emphasise that these protests must be seen in the context of India’s democratic ethos and polity, and the efforts of the government and the concerned farmer groups to resolve the impasse.
Before rushing to comment on such matters, we would urge that the facts be ascertained, and a proper understanding of the issues at hand be undertaken. The temptation of sensationalist social media hashtags and comments, especially when resorted to by celebrities and others, is neither accurate nor responsible," the ministry of external affairs said.
