shot-button
Subscription Subscription
Home > News > Opinion News > Article > Fear the farmer

Fear the farmer

Updated on: 24 August,2010 07:58 AM IST  | 
Dilip Cherian |

Until a few days ago, I wasn't aware of how much the lawmakers of our country were paid to 'run' the world's largest democracy.

Fear the farmer




Ever since Nandigram, few governments are keen to arm-twist farmers into giving up their land, but Mayawati obviously believed she could pull it off. The heavy-handed reaction to protesting farmers spun the situation out of hand. Now with farmers in Jharkhand up in arms over land acquisition for a proposed steel plant, the Centre is keen to check the fire before it spreads further.



Of course, having a clear policy on land acquisition and compensation would be immensely helpful to everyone, but somehow no one still seems to think it necessary!

Something's rotten!
Dilli is quietly cheering that the rats are still around - it's proof that the ship is not sinking, as one wag quipped. In India, rats are not only around, they seem to be doing better than humans. A respected boffin has revealed that rodents in the country are actually healthier!

With reports of lakhs of tonnes of grain rotting away for lack of storage facilities space, no wonder the rats are feeding better than the average Indian. And again, unlike the average Indian, they don't have to worry about soaring food inflation either!

Except for some clucking sounds of disapproval, we haven't heard a squeak from the government yet. With the Supreme Court now castigating the government's inability to provide food security and demanding action, India's grain will go to feed the poor rather than rot or fill the bloated bellies of rats.

"Exciting news! Mid-day is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!


Mid-Day Web Stories

Mid-Day Web Stories

This website uses cookie or similar technologies, to enhance your browsing experience and provide personalised recommendations. By continuing to use our website, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Cookie Policy. OK