CHANDIGARH: There is rampant protest in Punjab, especially against BJP candidates by farmer unions. These unions reach every campaign where BJP candidates appear, raising the same questions and demands on regular basis. This continues despite numerous attempts by BJP candidates to engage in dialogue.
The farmer unions claim their actions are an exercise of their right to expression and protest, but this has significantly hampered the BJP’s campaign efforts.
Amidst the chaos created by Khalistanis and hardliners masquerading as farmers, three firebrand female BJP candidates have delivered strong responses and continued their campaigns undeterred. The Sunday Guardian spoke to these three BJP candidates to learn how they are dealing with the protests.
Preneet Kaur, Patiala
Preneet Kaur, the BJP candidate from Patiala, has faced persistent protests but remains undeterred. She emphasized the contributions of Captain Amarinder Singh, urging farmers to trust in his commitment to their demands. She remarked, “Captain Sahib has always done so much for the farmers. They should have faith that he will keep their demands as a top priority. Farmers have a predominant role in Punjab, but in other states, there are other communities. Prime Minister Modi is not against them. The government will do whatever is possible for them.”
Kaur highlighted the steps taken by the government, including the Prime Minister’s apology and the withdrawal of the contentious farm laws. Despite these efforts, she pointed out the obstacles in their campaign. “They do not allow us to campaign. We have every right to take our campaign forward. They threaten voters, but the right to vote cannot be curtailed by force. It is farmers versus the BJP here, and they do not protest against any other party’s candidates. Other parties are supporting them to oppose BJP.”
She further shared her personal efforts to support the farming community, saying, “I personally visited each farmer’s family, who lost a member during the movement, and provided financial help. No other leader did that.”
Som Parkash, Hoshiarpur
Anita Som Parkash, the BJP candidate from Hoshiarpur, has also faced significant opposition from farmer unions. She reassured the farmers that their demands would be considered once the BJP forms the government at the Centre. Despite the protests, she continued her campaign in Barian Kalan village, demonstrating her determination.
Speaking to The Sunday Guardian, Parkash reflected on her interactions with the protesting farmers. “These are the same farmers who used to come to our house with their grievances. It is hard for them to protest before me. Once, during a protest, I asked if they had asked everything from me, and when they said yes, I said, ‘Okay, then leave the space, I need to meet people.’ They gave me space to move ahead. They are basically touts of opposition parties.”
Parkash’s response highlights the underlying political motivations behind some of the protests, suggesting that they are not entirely grassroots movements but influenced by opposing political factions.
Parampal Kaur Sidhu, Bathinda
Parampal Kaur Sidhu, a retired IAS officer and BJP candidate from Bathinda, has similarly faced relentless protests. She recounted an instance where she engaged with protesters, only to be met with repetitive questions and allegations. “They have the same questions and allegations that we have answered many times. Now, I ignore them and continue my campaigns because what they are demanding can be solved once we are in power. It is as simple as that.”
Sidhu asserted that the government has already done a lot for farmers, but these protests are not genuinely about farmer issues. “These people are not genuine farmers; they are funded heavily by the opposition, who do not want the BJP to have a hold in Punjab.”
Sidhu’s approach underscores a pragmatic perspective, focusing on continuing her campaign despite the disruptions and emphasizing that lasting solutions can only be achieved through governance.