Harshwardhan Sapkal alleged that the Centre was responsible for the situation and accused PM Modi of compromising the interests of Indian farmers. He also criticised the proposed Wardha–Goa Shaktipeeth Expressway, claiming it would primarily benefit large industrial interests
Maharashtra Congress chief Harshwardhan Sapkal leads a march in Hingoli. PIC/BY SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT
Congress organised a farmers’ protest march from Kalmanuri to Hingoli in Maharashtra on Monday, led by party’s state chief Harshwardhan Sapkal.
The march, titled ‘Shetkari Sangharsh Padyatra (Farmers’ Struggle March),’ was organised to highlight issues faced by farmers and to protest against what the party described as anti-farmer policies of the Narendra Modi-led Centre.
According to Sapkal, prices of agricultural produce have declined after the trade agreement between India and the United States (US), resulting in losses for farmers.
“As the trade agreement with the US was signed, the prices of agricultural produce across the country have fallen. Farmers growing fruits are also facing significant losses,” he said while addressing the media.
Sapkal alleged that the Centre was responsible for the situation and accused PM Modi of compromising the interests of Indian farmers.
“Narendra Modi has surrendered before the US and has put the country up for sale,” he claimed.
Harshwardhan Sapkal attacks Wardha–Goa Shaktipeeth Expressway, Mahayuti government
The ‘padyatra’ began in the morning after state leaders paid tribute at the memorial of late former Member of Parliament Rajeev Satav.
Several Congress leaders and party workers, including Mohan Joshi, Sachin Naik, Professor Yashpal Bhinge, Siddharth Hattiambire, and Sahebrao Kamble, along with local office-bearers and farmers, participated in the march.
During the event, Sapkal also criticised the proposed Wardha–Goa Shaktipeeth Expressway, claiming it would primarily benefit large industrial interests rather than ordinary citizens.
“The Wardha–Goa Shaktipeeth Expressway is not meant for common people. It is being built to facilitate the transportation of minerals from Gadchiroli to the coastline for export. This highway is a red carpet for big capitalists,” he alleged, adding that farmers would not benefit from the project.
Sapkal further questioned the government’s decision to undertake the ₹88,000-crore highway project at a time when, according to him, contractor payments were pending and financial resources were limited. He also claimed that the state government had yet to fulfil financial commitments, including assistance promised under the “Ladki Bahin” scheme.
The Congress leader also criticised the ruling Mahayuti government in Maharashtra, alleging corruption and accusing it of shielding those involved in irregularities.
Commenting on rising LPG prices amid tensions in the Gulf region, Sapkal said that benefits of falling global fuel prices were not passed on to consumers, while price hikes were justified during shortages. He further urged the central government to hold discussions in Parliament and engage with opposition parties on economic and foreign policy matters.
“India should not become subservient to the United States but should stand with dignity and self-respect,” he said.
The Kalmnuri–Hingoli Farmers’ Struggle March concluded with a public meeting attended by party leaders, workers and farmers.
Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
