Punjab BJP Chief Sunil Jakhar Calls for Dialogue with Farmers Over India–US Trade Agreement

Chandigarh, February 11: Punjab BJP President Sunil Jakhar has invited farmer organisations to engage in constructive dialogue regarding the recently announced India–US trade agreement, urging them to raise concerns through discussion rather than protest.

Addressing the media after a meeting with BJP district executives and mandal presidents in Mohali, Jakhar said that if any farmer groups believe the agreement contains shortcomings, they should come forward for talks. He stressed that dialogue should always precede agitation.

Jakhar maintained that the trade pact would not adversely affect farmers in Punjab. He clarified that key crops grown in the state — including wheat, paddy, maize and sugarcane — have been kept outside the agreement’s scope, ensuring that farmers’ core interests remain protected.

According to him, the agreement is designed to strengthen industry and trade, thereby generating new employment opportunities for the youth. He noted that while agriculture sustains families, it often does not provide sufficient income to meet the aspirations of the next generation.

“Every family wants better career opportunities for their children beyond farming. That will only be possible when industry expands and new investments create jobs,” he said.

Jakhar described the deal as a strategic step that will open access for Indian businesses to the $30 trillion US economy, potentially boosting economic growth and employment across sectors.

He appealed to farmer organisations to clearly outline their specific concerns regarding the agreement’s impact on Punjab. “If any group feels that the agreement harms farmers’ interests, we are ready to discuss and address those concerns. Protests should only follow when dialogue fails,” he added.

The BJP leader also emphasised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s commitment to safeguarding farmers’ interests, asserting that the agreement reflects that commitment.

Shifting focus to state issues, Jakhar urged farmer groups to press for the implementation of a comprehensive agricultural policy in Punjab, which, he said, remains pending despite previous protests.

He also expressed concern over the deteriorating law-and-order situation in the state, highlighting rising crime and drug abuse. Referring to a recent firing incident involving migrant labourers in Moga, Jakhar condemned the attack and called for strict action.

“Earlier business owners were targeted, and now even labourers are facing violence. This is unacceptable,” he said, urging the state government to take firm steps to restore order.

Jakhar underlined the important role migrant workers play in Punjab’s agriculture and industrial sectors, stating that divisive actions go against the state’s social and cultural values.

Concluding his remarks, he said that while global leaders are focused on strengthening their nations’ economies, India must continue to pursue growth while protecting national and regional interests.