THOUSANDS of farmers marched into a massive rally in Kolkata on December 16 to protest against the centre’s three farm-laws and in solidarity with struggling farmers of north India. The march to Raj Bhavan was at the call of AIKSCC and was joined in by different sections of the people. In one of the largest mobilisations in recent times, farmers from districts adjoining Kolkata rallied in processions. The entire area of Rani Rasmoni Road was flooded with people. Farmers also marched in two big processions from Howrah and Sealdaha stations. Trade Unions, student and women organisations joined in large numbers. People from middle classes attended to show in solidarity with farmers.

A delegation of peasants’ organisations submitted a memorandum to the governor’s office, who was not present at that time.

Among others, AIKS general secretary, Hannan Mollah addressed the meeting. He vowed that the farmers will continue to struggle until and unless the centre withdraws three farm laws. Mollah said, the farmers protested against these laws for more than seven months but they were not listened to by the government. Now in the name of discussion the centre is proposing cosmetic changes. The entire direction of these laws is pro-corporate and anti-farmer.

Mollah and other speakers also addressed the issues of the peasantry of West Bengal and said, if TMC government has the honesty, then they should bring new laws in state assembly nullifying central laws. In the slogans, the farmers protested both against Modi and Mamata governments.