Several US lawmakers voice support for farmers’ agitation, urge they be allowed to protest peacefully

Several US lawmakers have voiced their support for farmers agitating at Delhi’s borders against the new farm laws, urging that they be allowed to protest peacefully.

“I stand in solidarity with the Punjabi farmers in India protesting for their livelihoods and protection from misguided, manipulative government regulations”, Republican Congressman Doug LaMalfa, who represents Californian’s first Congressional district, said on Monday. “Punjabi farmers must be allowed to protest peacefully against their government without fear of violence,” he added.

“India is the world’s largest Democracy – they owe it to their citizens to allow peaceful protest. I encourage these folks and PM (Narendra) Modi to have peaceful, productive discussions”, Democratic Congressman Josh Harder said

Congressman Andy Levin said, ‘Whether here at home or around the globe, we’ve got to help workers earn a better and more secure living. In India, many workers are farmers, and they are making it clear that they will not stand for Modi government “reforms” that allow corporate interests to exploit them.’

‘I’m inspired by this movement, and I see it as a harbinger of a people power year in 2021!!’ he added.

Congressman T J Cox said, ‘India must uphold the right to peaceful demonstration and ensure their citizens’ safety. The rights of farmers protesting must be respected and meaningful dialogue is the way forward,’ the Democratic leader asserted.