Congress Condemns Khattar’s Remarks on Farmer Protests as Anti-Farmer Mindset
New Delhi: Congress National Spokesperson Pawan Khera strongly criticized Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar’s recent remarks regarding the farmers’ agitation, labeling them as “insulting” and indicative of an “anti-farmer mindset.” Khera’s comments came in response to Khattar’s assertion that there are individuals “in the garb of farmers” attempting to destabilize the government.
Speaking to IANS, Khera expressed concern over Khattar’s comments, especially in the context of the upcoming elections. “Making anti-farmer statements during election time shows that Khattar is still upset with Prime Minister Modi. What else does this indicate?” he questioned.
Khattar, addressing party workers in Ambala, emphasized that the people of Haryana would not allow such individuals to disrupt governance and promised that they would be “exposed” soon.
Khera also took the opportunity to commend Priyanka Gandhi’s active involvement in campaigning, particularly her advocacy for women’s and farmers’ issues. He highlighted her support for the wrestlers’ protest in the capital, contrasting it with the government’s lack of response. “When Vinesh Phogat and other wrestlers were protesting just a few kilometers from the PM’s residence, it was Priyanka Gandhi who stood by them. The Prime Minister and his party remained silent and instead supported Brij Bhushan,” he noted.
In light of recent controversies in Himachal Pradesh regarding nameplate regulations, Khera clarified that the Congress government had not enacted any such policies. He asserted, “We have not taken any decision regarding nameplates. Our focus is on ensuring that street vendors and hawkers receive legal protection and designated space, but nameplate regulations were not a decision made by us.”
The Congress party has also requested a “written explanation” from Himachal Pradesh Minister Vikramaditya Singh after he sparked controversy with his announcement that all eateries and food stalls would need to display the owner’s ID card.
Khera’s statements reflect Congress’s strategy to position itself as a champion of farmers and marginalized groups ahead of the elections, while also holding the ruling party accountable for its policies and statements.
