The Congress has decided to support the Bharat bandh called on December 8 in support of the farmers protesting against the Centre’s new agriculture laws.
“Congress party has decided to support the Bharat bandh on December 8. We will be demonstrating the same at our party offices. It will be a step towards strengthening Rahul Gandhi”s support to the farmers. We will ensure that the demonstration is successful,” party spokesperson Pawan Khera said.
Former party chief Rahul Gandhi, through tractor rallies, signature campaigns, and farmers’ rallies has been raising the party’s voice in support of the farmers, he added.
Farmers have called a nationwide shutdown on Tuesday, saying they will occupy all highway toll gates across the country and not allow the government to collect tolls as part of the December 8 strike.
On Saturday farmer leaders met union ministers for talks third this week and fifth since September but the five-hour discussion broke down on the core issue repeal of the laws.
After the meeting Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar said the centre remains committed to finding a solution but urged farmers to scale down protests outside Delhi – by sending the elderly and children home. A sixth meeting will take place on Wednesday, at which a fresh proposal from the centre will be tabled.