Gandhian imprint in the farmer’s protest ~

Synopsis: The protesting farmers are going through physical and mental suffering in Delhi’s severe winter. But the Government and the urban middle classes do not seem to feel a sense of discomfort.

Background

Gandhiji always backed non-violent methods of protest. Gandhiji also believed rural economy based mass movement follow non-violent methods. This is evident in the incident when he cancelled the Non-Cooperation Movement after Chauri Chura incident.

Today also, India is facing a rural economy based mass movement, following the principle of non-violence (Farmers protest). But the government and supporters of the farm laws are not respecting the non-violence.

Scholars, columnists and advisers supporting the laws are of the view that farmers who are protesting are being misled and do not represent the farming community as a whole.

What steps should the government take to end the farmers protest amicably?

First, Persuasion approach- Persuading farmers about the benefits and other important efforts towards farmer’s welfare can end the protest.

Second, Dialogue between equals- The Government should reach the farmers for negotiation as an equal partner.

Third, Removal of stereotypical perception- The urban educated class has certain stereotypes about farmers. These stereotypes have to be removed during negotiations. According to urban educated class:

Farmers do not know their own benefits due to the general ignorance and lack of education.

The farming community is simple-minded and therefore can be easily misled.

How the farmer’s protest and the Gandhian principles are relatable?

First, the idea of a peaceful protest is a legacy of Gandhi.

Second, the faith in non-violence by the protesting farmers must be respected by the other side (the government).

Thus, according to Gandhiji’s view the protester’s willingness to undergo physical or mental sufferings is a means of awakening opposite party’s human instincts.

✅Way Forward

The government and the urban middle classes need to change their stereotypical perception regarding farmers.

The government should also consider the suffering [physical as well as mental] of the farmers.