PM Modi acknowledges the importance of agricultural reforms.

PM Modi pitches for agricultural reforms

On Monday, a day before the nationwide strike called by the farmers unions and protestors on the borders of the National Capital, Prime Minister Narendra Modi diverted the air with his pacifying speech on the significance of the newly introduced agricultural reforms. The declarations were made during virtual inauguration of the Agra metro rail project, amid outrage and protests by farmers for repealing of three amendments issued by Farmers' Bill.

The Prime Minister urged the idea of change by saying, "Reforms are necessary to lay down the foundations of the future. We can't rely or follow the predetermined fixated rules to lead a positive change. To maintain law and order, we ought to accept new laws." He emphasized on the notion of development preceded by reforms. On further adding, he said, "The laws which used to be good in the past need not serve the demands and aspirations of the present or future. We should get rid of such burdening laws through needful modifications." He brought out the idea to not get accustomed to monotony.

The Prime Minister focussed on "holistic reforms" by his government. He feels that such laws will be in the welfare of a larger section of society rather than benefiting certain departments or segments. In his justification of the government's action, the PM chiseled the finer capabilities that this amendment will uplift farmers. This remark has been out a day before the nationwide shutdown. The farmers are protesting against the laws passed in September namely Farmers’ Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Act, 2020, the Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement on Price Assurance and Farm Services Act, 2020, and the Essential Commodities (Amendment) Act, 2020.

The Bandh has been supported by various opposition parties and state governments including the Chief Minister of Delhi Arvind Kejriwal. The centre has directed the states and union territories to uphold law and order by tightening the securing and affirming the peace and tranquility during the strike. After indecisive discussions with the centre such a harsh step is announced. Commuters and transporters will face difficulties as the borders and key entrances to Delhi have been sealed in view of security. Delhi Police has issued the list of borders those will be operating for commuting to or from Haryana and Uttar Pradesh.