Patna (ABN): The issue of farmers’ land is increasingly taking the form of a movement. Rakesh Tikait, a leader of the Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU), has announced the launch of a farmers’ movement in the state. His demands include fair compensation for farmers’ land being acquired for government projects and the repeal of the Bihar City Development Act.

It is noteworthy that farmers in Bihar are opposing the acquisition of agricultural land for the proposed satellite township. In this regard, Tikait stated that farmers must fight for their rights. He also noted that the farmers’ movement in Bihar is currently weak and urged those working outside the state to support the movement from where they reside. Rakesh Tikait also raised the issue of agricultural mandis and market committees, alleging that their closure has already weakened farmers. He added that the issue of land acquisition is now surfacing, and according to Tikait, Bihar’s farmers have understood the issue and will adopt the path of a movement to defend their rights.

The Bharatiya Kisan Union has also strongly demanded the repeal of the Bihar City Development Act. The organization stated that instead of acquiring agricultural land for the satellite township, focus should be placed on village development. Furthermore, decisions regarding farmers’ land should be made while keeping their concerns in mind. The union also demanded the waiver of farmers’ loans. It has been proposed to implement the C2+50 percent formula for determining the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for all crops. This means that the MSP for a crop will be fixed by adding an additional 50 percent to the full cost of cultivation. A demand has also been made to provide a monthly pension of 10,000 rupees to farmers and laborers aged 60 years and above.

Meanwhile, Rakesh Tikait appealed to people to avoid division in the name of religion. He stated that the government of the country should function in accordance with the constitution. He also alleged that the influence of large business groups on the government’s functioning is increasing. It is worth noting that farmers in Bihar have long opposed the acquisition of agricultural land for the satellite township.