Celebrities should not rush to comment: Indian Govt after farmers’ protest goes global

As global pop icon Rihanna and climate change activist Greta Thunberg created a storm on social media on Tuesday night with their support towards the ongoing farmers’ agitation, the Ministry of External Affairs of India has said that it is “unfortunate” that some vested groups are garnering international support.

In a detailed statement posted by MEA spokesperson Anurag Srivastava, India has said, “Before rushing to comment on such matters, we would urge that the facts be ascertained, and a proper understanding of the issues at hand be undertaken. The temptation of sensationalist social media hashtags and comments, especially when resorted to by celebrities and others, is neither accurate nor responsible.”

The Centre’s strong reaction comes hours after Rihanna, Greta Thunberg and a number of global icons took to social media to voice their support towards the agitating farmers in India, triggering massive social media chatter on the agitation that has been going on for over two months.

The Ministry of External Affairs has further justified the farm reform laws against which thousands of farmers have been protesting outside the Delhi borders and said the laws were passed by the Parliament after the due procedure and is aimed at the welfare of farmers.

“A very small section of farmers in parts of India have some reservations about these reforms. Respecting the sentiments of the protestors, the Government of India has initiated a series of talks with their representatives,” said MEA in the statement.

The ministry has further said that even PM Narendra Modi has said that the farm laws will be put on hold till the issues are resolved.

However, the MEA has added that “it is unfortunate to see vested interest groups trying to enforce their agenda on these protests, and derail them”, in reference to the violence in Delhi on Republic Day.