Question

The Bharatiya Kisan Union is a leading organisation highlighting the plight of farmers. What were the issues addressed by it in the nineties and to what extent were they successful?

Answer 1

Bharatiya Kisan Union was one of the leading farmers’ movement to protest against the policies of process of liberalisation of Indian economy.

Issues addressed by BKU :-

1. Higher government floor prices for sugarcane and wheat,
2. Guaranteed supply of electricity at reasonable rates.
3. To wave off repayments due on loan to farmers.
4. To provide government pension to farmers.
5. Abolition of restrictions on the interstate movement of farm produce.

Highlighted the plight of farmers :-

1. BKUconductedrallies, demonstrations, and Jail Bharo agilations.
2. These protests involved thousands 20 over lakhs farmers from western UPs adjoining regions.
3. BKU operated as a pressure group in politics with its strength of sheer members.

Extent of Success :-

1. BKU became the most successful social movements.
2. It sustained for a longtime due to clannetworks among its members.
3. These networks mobilised funds, resources and activities of BKU.
4. An outcome of political bargaining powers by its members.
5. BKU farmers dominated regional electoral politics also.