By Abdul Gani, TwoCircles.net
Guwahati: More than five thousand farmers from all religions, communities and tribes have came out on the streets to march across Assam in order to express their opposition against the increasing ‘intolerance’ in the country under the rule of BJP-led NDA government.
“This is one of the biggest and longest-ever marches on foot by the people of the state. We are glad to see the people from all the religions have willingly come out and join the rally to voice their displeasure against the current situation of the country,” said Akhil Gogoi, leader of Krishak Mukti Sangram Samiti (KMSS), an influential peasants’ body in the state which has taken the lead of the protest march.
On Friday, they started from Nagaon and will cover a distance of 250 kilometre to reach Guwahati. Throughout their journey, they will attend rallies and meetings.
“We are fed up with the current system of ruling. The BJP government is trying to polarise the people of the country in the name of religion. To kill fellow citizens in the suspicion of having beef is the worst thing to happen in a democratic country like ours. The BJP and RSS are spreading the venom of communalism,” said Gogoi.
He also mentioned about the other developments which have been against the interests of the common people. “The Narendra Modi government is taking the initiatives to help the big corporate but not the common people. The real issues are not being addressed. A country cannot progress neglecting its farmers. But the current government is doing exactly the same. So we would like to send a message to the Prime Minister to focus on the development of the farmers,” Gogoi added.
On Friday, the protestors completed 25 kilometres and are expected to reach Guwahati in a week.
The farmers have also slammed the Tarun-Gogoi led Congress government in Assam. “The Congress has destroyed the state with their limitless corruption. We appeal to the government to work for the farmers or the coming days will be worst,” said Mukut Rabha, a farmer.
The farmers’ body has been voicing their opposition against several developments of the BJP government. The KMSS has also been opposing the notification issued by the central government which enables the non-Muslim migrants from Bangladesh and Pakistan shelter in India.
“This is a danger development for the state. This will destroy the future of the state with communal hatred. We do not want to bring division among the illegal foreigners. How can an illegal foreigner be divided in the name of religion?” Gogoi had said in a protest rally in Guwahati earlier.