Jind (Haryana), Feb 3: In a show of strength by protesting farmers, Bharatiya Kisan Union leader Rakesh Tikait on Wednesday addressed a massive rally and warned the government it could find it difficult to stay on in power if the new agri-marketing laws are not repealed.
Just before Tikait was to begin his speech at the ‘’mahapanchayat’’ in Kandela village, the makeshift stage on which the farmer leaders had gathered collapsed under their weight. Nobody was reported hurt and Tikait went on to address the gathering. But the episode triggered a commotion and he and the event organisers had to repeatedly tell people to maintain calm.
Calling for a wapsi (withdrawal) of the new Central laws, Tikait indirectly warned the Narendra Modi government that it could lose its gaddi (power) if the agitation continues. “We have so far talked about “Bill wapsi” (repealing the farm laws). The government should listen carefully. What will you do if the youth call for gaddi wapsi (removal from power)?” he said. – PTI
