Congress accuses PM Modi of gaving 'false assurances' to farmers in 'Mann ki baat'

Congress on Sunday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given 'false assurances' to the farmers in his 'Mann ki baat' address and alleged that the latter is attempting to justify the amended Land Acquisition Bill, which is meant to benefit only the capitalists.

"Prime Minister's 'Maan ki baat' today turned out to be a lie and was proved to be for capitalists. The farmers have now come to a conclusion that both Modi and unseasonal rains are responsible for the bad condition. Instead of giving compensation for those affected of hailstorm and rain, he has just given false assurances," Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala told ANI.

"We would like to ask Prime Minister Modi why his government destroyed the soul and body of 2013 Land Acquisition Bill. The new law is for capitalists, and to justify that they are making false promises, and telling lies," he added.

Speaking to farmers on sixth edition of the radio programme 'Mann ki baat' earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said that the amendments in the Land Acquisition Bill were made for welfare of people and villages.

"We felt that there was a need to bring some amendments in the law, we only wish for welfare of people and villages. If states have objection to amendments in Land Acquisition Bill, they can continue with the old law," Prime Minister Modi said in ' Mann ki baat'.

"I assure all my farmer brothers that I will alert all state governments as well as all departments in the Central Government over the issues that you have raised.....I have said in Parliament, that if someone still feels some changes are required, we are willing to take up suggestions. We are emphasizing on health of mother land as well, which is why we've started soil health card scheme. I assure you that I will not break your trust," he added.