Punjab BJP chief accuses CM Bhagwant Mann of sabotaging farmer-Centre talks

The Chief Minister of Punjab, Bhagwant Mann, has been accused by state BJP chief Sunil Jakhar of jeopardizing the ongoing negotiations between farmer leaders and Union ministers, further complicating the resolution of the ongoing farmers’ agitation. Jakhar’s statement comes in the wake of the farmers’ rejection of the Centre’s proposal to purchase pulses, maize, and cotton crops at Minimum Support Price (MSP) for five years, leading to the continuation of the ‘Delhi Chalo’ agitation.

CM Mann participated in the crucial meeting on Sunday between three Union ministers and farmer leaders where the proposal was presented. Jakhar, expressing his dissatisfaction, deemed it “most unfortunate” that the talks between farmers and the central government failed, especially at a time when thousands of farmers are encamped at the Punjab-Haryana border, pressing for demands such as a legal guarantee for MSP and farm debt waiver.

In a post on X, Jakhar alleged that Mann’s involvement as the “lawyer for the farmers” was a significant factor contributing to the breakdown of negotiations. He claimed that Mann, with vested interests, had everything to gain from the failure of the talks.

Jakhar contended, “Sure enough, Mann has succeeded in this mission by jeopardizing the sincere efforts of both the farmers and the central ministerial team to arrive at a solution.” He further questioned the authority that allowed Mann to represent the farmers, highlighting Mann’s alleged backtrack on promises made to farmers and failure to provide compensation for flood damage.

CM Mann, in defense, stated that he participated in the meeting as an “advocate” for the farmers. He has been present in three out of four meetings held between farmer leaders and Union ministers Piyush Goyal, Arjun Munda, and Nityananad Rai.
The ongoing dispute underscores the complexities surrounding the negotiations and the divergent perspectives among key stakeholders.