Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has issued a press release in which it termed the recent comments by foreign individuals and entities as neither accurate nor responsible.
The statement from the MEA comes in the light of celebrity pop-singer Rihanna, radical climate ‘activist’ Greta Thunberg and porn star Mia Khalifa tweeting in support of the ‘farmers’ protests.
In the press release, the MEA said that the reformist legislations were passed by the Parliament of India after a full debate and discussion.
“These reforms give expanded market access and provided greater flexibility to farmers. They also pave the way for economically and ecologically sustainable farming.”, the press release said.
It also stated that only a very small section of the farmers have reservations with the laws for which the Government of India has initiated a series of talks with farmer representatives.
“Union Ministers have been part of the negotiations, and eleven rounds of talks have already been held. The Government has even offered to keep the laws on hold, an offer iterated by no less than the Prime Minister of India.”, the press release said.
“Yet, it is unfortunate to see vested interest groups trying to enforce their agenda on these protests, and derail them. This was egregiously witnessed on January 26, India’s Republic Day. A cherished national commemoration, the anniversary of the inauguration of the Constitution of India, was besmirched, and violence and vandalism took place in the Indian capital.”, the press release added stating that the police forces showed utmost restraint while handling these protests.
The MEA noted that certain vested interest groups have tried to mobilise international support against India and added that the episode had led to Mahatma Gandhi’s statue being broken in parts of the world.
“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 press release concluded.
(With inputs from MEA press release)
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