The Sikh Coordination Committee East Coast (SCCEC) and the American Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (AGPC) have emerged as vocal advocates in solidarity with the ongoing farmers’ protest in India. This show of support signifies a broader international resonance with the concerns and demands of the protesting farmers. In a convention hosted at Gurdwara Dashmesh Darbar in Carteret, New Jersey, both organizations articulated several key resolutions aimed at addressing the grievances of the farmers and advocating for their rights within the Indian agricultural landscape.
A pivotal demand put forth by the Sikh organizations involves urging the Indian Government to enact an ordinance to legalize the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for agricultural produce. This proposition underscores the significance of ensuring that farmers receive adequate compensation for their crops, which covers all input costs. Additionally, the call for a 50 per cent overhead premium for 23 crops accentuates the need to enhance the economic viability of farming as a sustainable livelihood.
In a resolute stance against injustices faced by farmers, the resolutions adopted by SCCEC and AGPC also include demands for accountability and justice. The call for the dismissal of the Union Minister, whose son was allegedly involved in a tragic incident in Uttar Pradesh’s Lakhimpur Kheri district, reflects a commitment to holding those in positions of power accountable for their actions. Furthermore, the plea for the withdrawal of all criminal cases against the farmers involved in the Lakhimpur incident underscores the imperative of ensuring fair treatment and due process for all individuals affected by the ongoing agrarian turmoil.
The convergence of voices from the Sikh diaspora in the United States underscores the global resonance of the farmers’ protest and its significance beyond national borders. By amplifying their concerns on an international platform, SCCEC and AGPC exemplify the spirit of solidarity and collective action in advocating for the rights and welfare of farmers in India. This transnational solidarity not only highlights the interconnectedness of global communities but also emphasizes the shared commitment to upholding principles of justice, equity, and dignity for all.
The unwavering support extended by the Sikh Coordination Committee East Coast and the American Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee to the farmers’ protest in India epitomizes a broader movement for social justice, economic equity, and agricultural reform. Through their advocacy efforts and principled stand, these organizations reaffirm the enduring values of solidarity, compassion, and empowerment within the Sikh community and beyond. As the global community continues to bear witness to the evolving dynamics of the farmers’ protest, the collective voice of support resonates as a testament to the resilience and determination of those striving for a more just and equitable society.
