Gadwal: The Communist Party of India (CPI) has pledged support to seed cotton farmers in Nadigadda and nearby areas of Jogulamba Gadwal district. These farmers claim they face harassment from seed organizers and middlemen. At a press meet held in the CPI district office, the party criticized the oppressive practices of what they call the “Seed Mafia” and demanded urgent action from the district leaders.
Farmers’ Plea for Help
Farmers from Elukur and Nethonipalli villages, such as Gokaranna and Parashuramudu, spoke of intense pressure and threats. They reported receiving aggressive calls and insults demanding loan repayments. A distressed farmer expressed fears of being “chained and forced to work” if payments were delayed.
CPI District Secretary B. Anjaneyulu promised complete backing for these farmers, warning organizers against continuing illegal acts. “We will protect the farmers. Any harm, whether through calls or agents, will be met with legal and social action,” he stated.
The CPI is ready to escalate protests if officials do not act against those causing farmers humiliation and distress.
More Than Just Loans
The CPI pointed out flaws in the seed business model. Organizers demand land and property as collateral for loans, yet they provide no assurance of seed quality. Failed crops due to poor seeds push farmers into debt, while organizers evade accountability.
CPI leaders questioned why farmers’ assets are at risk, but organizers’ assets aren’t used as security. They demand interest-free repayments based on farmers’ situations and legal responsibility for seed failures.
CPI’s Appeal to Authorities
CPI leaders urged the District Collector and Superintendent of Police to:
- Scrutinize seed organizers’ operations.
- Stop illegal loan practices.
- Protect farmers from harassment.
- Ensure legal responsibility for all involved.
- Set up grievance systems at local levels.
Despite past protests in Nadigadda against the seed mafia, no action has been taken due to political shielding. CPI warned of intensifying district-wide protests if justice is not served soon.
Call to Departments
CPI asked key departments to act:
- Agriculture Department: Control seed supply and quality, penalize unauthorized organizers.
- Revenue and Legal Departments: Stop illegal property pledges, offer legal help to victims.
- Police Department: Address harassment cases, ensure farmers’ safety.
- District Collector’s Office: Break up the seed mafia, offer quick relief to affected families.
Participation and Ongoing Efforts
Alongside CPI District Secretary B. Anjaneyulu, Maldakal Mandal Secretary Guntannagari Ranganna, Gadwal Mandal Secretary Kashi, and several affected farmers, including Gokaranna and Parashuramudu, attended the meet. CPI leaders stressed that unless legal actions and systemic changes occur, they will persist in leading and intensifying the fight for farmers.
