Farmers Stage Protest in Yamunanagar Against India-US Trade Deal
On Tuesday, the Bharatiya Kisan Union (Charuni) led a march in Yamunanagar to oppose the proposed India-US Free Trade Agreement. The protesters marched to the Mini Secretariat in Jagadhri, raising slogans against the government and warning of a nationwide agitation if the agreement is signed without considering farmers' interests.
Impact on Small Farmers Feared
Farmer leaders argued that the trade deal would allow US agricultural products and food items to enter India at low prices, severely affecting the domestic market. Sanju Gundiana, district president of BKU (C), stated, “The US practices large-scale commercial farming, while Indian farmers cultivate small holdings to support their families. Therefore, our farmers will not be able to compete with American farmers.”
Plans for Wider Protests
Gundiana announced that protests are already being held at district and block levels across the country. He added, “On June 25, a meeting of farmers and labour organisations from across the country will be held at Kisan Bhawan in Chandigarh, where a decision will be taken regarding a big movement. If necessary, we will gherao Parliament.”
