Farmers agitatiion in Gharsana politically motivated: minister

Jaipur, Oct 11 (UNI): Rajasthan Irrigation Minister Sanwarlal Jat today termed the farmers agitation at Gharsana in Ganganagar district as ''politically motivated''.

The minister, addressing a press conference here today, said the government have fullfilled almost all the demands of the farmers as per an understanding reached between the government and the Kisan Mazdoor Vyapari Sangarsh Samiti in December 11, 2004.

Mr Jat said the government cannot tamper with the regulation system now in force as it was arrived upon by consensus. He said if the government conceed the demand of the farmers of Gharsana and diverted more water to one area, that would result in reduced water supply to other areas, triggering a protest from that areas. He said there was no shortage of water and promised a review of the present system in November if the water flow increases in the canal.

When asked whether the government has invited the agitating farmers for talks, he said ''the doors are open and farmer leaders are welcome any time if they wish to talk''.

Farmers under the banner of Kisan Mazdoor Vyapari Sangah Samiti has revived their agitation and laid siege to the SDMs office on Tuesday demanding more water for Rabi crops. The agitation has turned violent with the farmers torching police vechicles and engaging in pitched battles with the police, defying curfew restrictions in the area.

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