BURNABY, B.C. – The United Steelworkers (USW) union in District 3 stands in solidarity with farmers and their families in India who are protesting against legislation recently passed by the Indian government that deregulates farming in India.
“Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi must immediately repeal the legislation that has ignited one of the biggest protests by farmers in recent history,” said Stephen Hunt, USW Director for Western Canada.
The agricultural sector contributes nearly 15% to India’s economy and employs around half of India’s 1.3 billion people.
“This legislation will now open the door for large retailers to take over small farms and this will harm the lives of millions of farmers. We cannot empower big corporations to exploit workers by eliminating guaranteed prices for products like rice and wheat,” added Hunt.
The USW is also condemning the acts of violence by the Indian government against farmers and the millions of activists across India who are peacefully protesting.
“It is appalling to see the government permit police brutality including the use of tear gas and water cannons. The Indian government must stop using violence and engage in meaningful dialogue with farmers,” said Hunt.
The USW is proud to stand in solidarity with the farmers as they stand together against these injustices.
“Over the years the labour movement has come together to build better working lives for all. We will continue to stand up for the right of peaceful protest anywhere around the world. We call on the Indian government to take immediate action to repeal the legislation and to bring an end to the violence against farmers and activists,” stated Hunt.
Stephen Hunt, USW Western Canada Director, 604-816-2554, shunt@usw.ca
Bob Gallagher, USW Communications, 416-544-5966, 416-434-2221, bgallagher@usw.ca
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