Lok Sabha elections 2024: Farmers' protest, empty chairs mark JP Nadda's visit to Punjab's Amritsar
PTC Web Desk: With the campaigning for the Lok Sabha Elections 2024 coming to an end at 5 pm, JP Nadda, national BJP chief, addressed a rally in support of Amritsar candidate Taranjit Singh Sandhu in the city on Thursday. However, Nadda's rally was marred by sloganeering by farmer leaders, who lodged a protest against 'anti-farmer' policies of the BJP.
BKU (Ekta Ugrahan) and other farmer organisations had given a call to lodge a protest against Nadda's visit to Amritsar. However, the police erected the barricades to prevent the farmers from marching to the rally venue. Enraged farmers, however, raised slogans against the BJP national president.
Despite the heavy police presence, farmers managed to make their voices heard, chanting slogans against the BJP. The discontent stems from long-standing grievances over agricultural policies, which farmers claim are detrimental to their livelihoods.
In his speech, Nadda expressed his honour at visiting Punjab, often referred to as ‘Guru Nagari’. He began by paying respects at Sri Harmandir Sahib and Durgiana Temple.
“Punjab has always been at the forefront of sacrifices for the nation,” said Nadda, acknowledging historical and contemporary contributions of Punjabis. He saluted the young men of Punjab for their readiness to shed blood for the country’s defense.
JP Nadda also reflected on Covid-19 pandemic, highlighting Punjab's proactive role in service during the crisis. He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for not leaving any stone unturned for the welfare of soldiers and farmers. He criticised the Congress for failing to implement One Rank One Pension (OROP) scheme, contrasting it with Modi’s successful establishment of Kartarpur corridor and recognition of sacrifices of Guru Gobind Singh Ji’s sons.
Nadda praised India’s economic progress under Modi’s leadership, stating, “India has jumped from 11th to the 5th largest economy in the world and is on its way to becoming the 3rd largest.” He also talked about significant increase in exports and boost in domestic manufacturing, pointing to 'Make in India' products as symbols of national strength.
Touching on national security, Nadda said India had given a strong response to Pakistan's provocations. He claimed that under Modi’s administration, the nation has become more secure and resilient against external threats.
Nadda also lauded the government’s welfare initiatives, such as constructing four crore houses and the Ayushman Bharat scheme, which provides free medical treatment up to Rs 5 lakh annually. He promised further expansion, with 30 crore more houses planned and enhanced healthcare facilities for the elderly.
In a direct attack on the opposition, Nadda talked about a series of corruption scandals involving INDIA alliance. He listed numerous scams, including those related to coal, telecommunications (2G and 3G), food grains, and helicopter procurement. He alleged that many leaders of the opposition alliance were either on bail or in jail due to these scandals.
Nadda’s rally, however, faced several challenges. Many seats remained empty, partly due to the disruption caused by the farmers' protests.
- With inputs from our correspondent
