In a joint statement released to the media, the left parties of Manipur comprising CPI(M), CPI, AIFB and RSP registered a strong protest against the baseless allegations being made by Prime Minister Modi, Chief Minister of Manipur Biren and BJP accusing the opposition parties of “repeatedly lying” to the farmers about the new farm laws and “using them for their politics”.  ‘Their accusations are a complete travesty of truth’, the left parties asserted. 

While expressing solidarity with the protesting farmers, the parties echoed that the call for this ongoing historic struggle was given by more than 500 Kisan organisations from all over the country under the banner of Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM). The left parties had opposed these Agri Laws when they were being enacted in the Parliament, without discussions, or, a proper consideration. MPs who sought a vote were suspended, says the joint statement of the left parties.

We are for reforms, but what sort of reforms? Opposition parties seek reforms to strengthen Indian agriculture; enhance the prosperity of our farmers; and ensure continued food security for our people and the country.  The present farm laws undermine these very objectives, the left parties feel.  

 In the statement, it mentions that ‘among the “big lies” that the opposition is supposedly spreading is on the MSP. They, the PM, the CM of Manipur and BJP claims implementing the Swaminathan Commission Report in this regard.  This Report had recommended an MSP of C2+50 per cent, while this government, at best, implements A2+50 per cent.  In fact, this government told the Supreme Court its inability to implement C2+50 per cent MSP.  Who is spreading untruths?’, asks the left.  

Likewise, the accusation that opposition parties are “shooting from the shoulders of the farmers” in order to “regain lost political ground”.  Despite all tall claims of improving farmers’ prosperity and implementing a higher MSP, the fact remains that farmers’ distress due to indebtedness is growing leaving a record number of them with no other recourse than committing distress suicides, states the political parties of Manipur.  

The unity, grit and determination being shown by lakhs of farmers from Delhi’s neighbouring states in the midst of a severe cold wave in a peaceful manner and tens of thousands now on their way marching from different places to join this protest is a testimony to the fact that the farmers across the country have risen in opposition to these farm laws. Already 32 farmers have lost their lives, echoes the party statement.

The joint statement of the left parties demanded that the present Agri Laws be repealed along with the Electricity (Amendment) Bill 2020. Following this, discussions on agrarian reforms must be held by the Central government with the farmers and all stakeholders. On the basis of these consultations, new enactments may be considered by the Parliament, if necessary, by convening a special or a joint session. 

The leaders of the Manipur left parties also offered for an open discussion on the Farm Bills with their representatives in any forum including the platform of Electronic Media if that is acceptable to the State BJP Government.