BJP Never Promised Farm Loan Waiver in Manifesto: Maha Minister
The ongoing debate over farm loan waivers in India has taken a new turn with a senior Maharashtra minister, Atul Save, stating that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) never promised farm loan waivers in its manifesto for the 2024 state assembly elections. This statement comes as a response to a hunger strike by Prahar Janshakti Party founder, Bachchu Kadu, who ended his seven-day fast in the Amravati district after the government assured to consider his demand for a complete farm loan waiver.
The controversy began when Kadu, a prominent farmer leader, started a hunger strike on September 12, demanding a complete farm loan waiver for the farmers in Maharashtra. The strike gained widespread attention, with many farmers and activists joining him in solidarity. The government, sensing the growing agitation, eventually agreed to consider the demand, but with certain conditions.
However, at a press conference, Minister Save contradicted the government’s earlier statement, saying that the BJP never promised farm loan waivers in its manifesto. He emphasized that the party’s policy is to provide relief to farmers through other means, such as increasing their income and providing better infrastructure.
Save’s statement has sparked a heated debate, with many questioning the government’s intentions. Farmer leaders and activists have accused the government of going back on its promise, while others have defended the government’s stance, citing the conditions attached to the loan waiver.
The BJP’s manifesto for the 2019 Lok Sabha elections had mentioned the need to support farmers through various measures, including providing financial assistance and improving agricultural infrastructure. However, it did not specifically promise a farm loan waiver.
The controversy has also highlighted the growing concern over farm distress in Maharashtra, one of India’s largest agricultural producers. The state has been witnessing a surge in farmer suicides, with many citing loan burdens and crop failures as the primary reasons. The demand for a farm loan waiver has been gaining momentum, with many farmers and activists calling for immediate action.
The BJP’s stance on farm loan waivers has been a subject of controversy in recent years. In 2018, the party had promised to waive off farm loans worth ₹3 lakh crore in its manifesto for the Madhya Pradesh assembly elections. However, the promise was not fulfilled, leading to widespread disappointment among farmers.
The latest controversy has also raised questions about the government’s commitment to supporting farmers. The Congress party, which has been critical of the BJP’s handling of farm issues, has accused the government of going back on its promises. “The BJP is only interested in making tall promises during elections and then forgets about them once they come to power,” said a senior Congress leader.
The controversy has also sparked a debate about the effectiveness of farm loan waivers as a solution to farm distress. Critics argue that loan waivers are a temporary solution that can create moral hazard, while proponents argue that they can provide immediate relief to farmers.
In conclusion, the BJP’s stance on farm loan waivers has sparked a heated debate, with many questioning the government’s intentions. While the minister’s statement may have clarified the party’s position, the controversy has highlighted the need for a more comprehensive solution to address farm distress. The government must take concrete steps to support farmers, including increasing their income, improving agricultural infrastructure, and providing better market access.
