Farmer Leader Challenges Haryana's Anti-Stubble Burning Policies

Ambala farmer leader Suresh Koth criticizes Haryana's strict measures against stubble burning, warning they could cause unrest. He urges the government to provide stubble management machines, blames industries for pollution, and opposes penalties on farmers, highlighting operational challenges in paddy sales due to moisture content deductions.

In Ambala, prominent farmer leader Suresh Koth has voiced strong opposition to the Haryana government's stringent measures aimed at curbing stubble burning. He cautioned that such policies could provoke further agitation among farmers. The government's tough stance includes severe penalties like filing First Information Reports (FIRs) against farmers and withholding the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for crops of those found burning stubble.

During his visit to the Ambala grain market, Koth expressed dissatisfaction with the administration's approach. He suggested that if the government provided stubble management equipment to every village, farmers would no longer resort to burning stubble. Koth contended that industries, rather than farmers, are primarily responsible for pollution and urged the government to tackle the fundamental causes instead of solely punishing agricultural communities.

Koth also highlighted issues arising from paddy purchases, particularly deductions due to moisture content. He reassured that farmers would find ways to sell their entire crop despite these hurdles. Koth appointed local leader Sukhwinder Singh Jalbeda as the district head of his union to fortify the organization's fight for farmers' rights amid government policies. He underscored that only 3 to 4 percent of pollution is attributable to farmers, with industries and vehicles contributing significantly more. He admonished against the government's heavy-handed tactics and criticized the misuse of World Bank funds intended for machine distribution to farmers.

(With inputs from agencies.)