Activist Draws Attention to Farmers Plight in Maharashtra Assembly

Prakash Pohare, a pro-Vidarbha statehood activist and journalist, interrupted the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly session in Nagpur to highlight the problems faced by farmers in the region.

Nagpur, December 14: A pro-Vidarbha statehood activist and journalist, Prakash Pohare, created a stir in the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly on Thursday by shouting slogans from the press gallery to highlight the plight of farmers in the region. The incident occurred during the ongoing winter session of the assembly in Nagpur.

Activist's Justification

Pohare, who is also the editor of a Marathi daily, explained his actions by stating that no one was addressing the pressing issues faced by Vidarbha farmers, particularly the alarming rate of farmer suicides in the region. He emphasized that he had been visiting the Vidhan Bhavan for several days but had not witnessed any discussions or mentions of matters related to Vidarbha.

Assembly Proceedings Dominated by Maratha Reservation

Pohare expressed frustration that the entire winter session, which commenced on December 7, had been consumed by deliberations on the Maratha reservation issue, neglecting other crucial matters. He lamented that legislators from Vidarbha were not raising important concerns affecting the region, such as farmer suicides and other challenges faced by cultivators.

Inquiry Ordered

In response to the incident, Senior MLA Chetan Tupe, who was presiding over the proceedings, ordered an immediate inquiry into the episode. BJP chief whip Ashish Shelar raised the issue in the house, drawing attention to the recent security breach in the Lok Sabha on December 13, where two individuals jumped down from the visitors' gallery.

Security Concerns Raised

Shelar expressed grave concerns about the security of the assembly, questioning how an unauthorized person could gain entry into the press gallery, gesture towards the speaker, and shout slogans without being intercepted. He demanded a thorough investigation into the matter to ascertain the security lapses and prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.

The incident highlights the urgent need to address the concerns of Vidarbha farmers and ensure that their voices are heard in the legislative assembly. It also raises important questions about the security measures in place at the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly and the need for vigilance to prevent any potential breaches.