Farmers' agitation triggers polarisation

Farmers' agitation in southern Maharashtra and other regions in the state demanding waiver of farm loans is triggering political polarisation. Activists of the Shetakari Sanghatana have backed the Sena-BJP and other party activists on the issue.

As the ruling Congress and the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) in the state have not categorically responded to the demand, the agitation is turning out to be anti-government.

Veteran social activist Mohan Dhariya has threatened to launch a massive agitation from January 26. Dhariya has criticised the anti-farmers policy of the state government and its inaction in responding to the farmers' due demands.