Amarinder Singh promises to settle Punjab farmers' debt

Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee president  Amarinder Singh on Monday promised to settle loans of debt-ridden farmers by enacting a law, to save their land and other property from being auctioned if the Congress is voted back to power.

He expressed concern over an alarming rise of suicides by farmers.

Amarinder also promised to set up a government degree college in Dirba besides elevating the place to the sub-divisional level as demanded by locals.

He also announced to increase number of seats in all government colleges as these were falling too short of the demand.

While interacting with the people of Dirba assembly segment during his seventh 'Halqe Vich Captain' programme in Dirba, Amarinder appealed farmers to bear with him and wait for six months more after which they will not face any harassment on account of their debts.

About 3500 people attended the interactive session with 2100 submitting written petitions and complaints.

He reminded people about the promise he made on December 15 during the 'Badlaav Rally' that no farmers' land or property will be allowed to be auctioned.

Amarinder recalled that during his previous tenure as Chief Minister he had waived-off farmers loans from cooperative banks.

He said, while he was negotiating the settlement with public sector banks, the government changed and nothing moved ahead.

He said, this time he will ensure that loans get settled in a time bound manner.