Farmers, workers to stage protest in Vijayawada on August 13 against U.S. tariffs, ‘anti-farmer' policies

The Hindu

3 days ago

Farmers, workers, and people's organisations have called for a protest at Dharna Chowk here on August 13, demanding that the United States withdraw the 50% tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump on Indian exports. They urged the Central Government not to bow to American pressure and to safeguard the interests of Indian farmers and workers.
The call was given at a meeting held here on Sunday, attended by trade union leaders Mooli Sambasiva Rao and N.C.H. Srinivas, Andhra Pradesh Tenant Farmers Association State general secretary P. Jamalayya, Rythu Sangham State vice-president Malneedi Yellamandar Rao, Rythu Sangham district secretary P.V. Anjaneyulu, and trade union leaders A.V.R., K.R. Anjaneyulu, Kasani Ganesh Babu, V. Lakshmana Rao, K. Basavayya, and V. Lakshminarayana, among others.
Speakers criticised the BJP-led Central Government for introducing policies 'more dangerous than the now-repealed three farm laws.' They alleged that amendments to the Agricultural Market Act were designed to serve the interests of foreign and domestic corporate exporters and importers, warning that such measures would ultimately dismantle the Minimum Support Price (MSP) system and end government procurement, dealing a severe blow to farmers.
They also accused the government of scrapping the Price Stabilisation Fund in this year's budget, slashing subsidies on fertilizers and farm equipment, and banning tractors over 10 years old — all of which, they said, would increase the burden on farmers.
On the international trade front, the leaders alleged that ever since Mr. Donald Trump returned to power, he had been pressuring India to sign a Free Trade Agreement while simultaneously imposing 50% tariffs on Indian exports. 'While Mr. Trump threatens, our Prime Minister remains silent — this is dangerous,' they said.
The protest organisers demanded that the Free Trade Agreement talks be abandoned, the new market laws harmful to farmers be repealed, the 50% tariffs be withdrawn, and the four labour codes detrimental to workers be scrapped.
They said the demonstration is part of a nationwide agitation called by the Samyukta Kisan Morcha under the slogan 'Quit Corporate' and urged farmers, tenant farmers, workers, agricultural labourers, students, youth, women, and the general public to participate in large numbers to make the event a success.