During the Winter Session of parliament 2024, the opposition has been raising several concerns, including the demand for a legal guarantee on the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for farmers. This topic has the potential to disrupt proceedings as the opposition is pushing for a firm commitment from the government regarding MSP, particularly in light of past promises and ongoing farmer protests.
An adjournment motion has been moved by the congress party in the Lok Sabha, demanding urgent discussions on the MSP guarantee, reflecting the growing tension around agricultural issues. This issue could lead to significant uproar in the house as opposition leaders, including rahul Gandhi, are actively mobilizing protests both inside and outside Parliament. These protests focus not only on MSP but also on other farm welfare measures like loan waivers. As the session progresses, it's likely there will be heated debates and potential adjournments due to these disruptions, similar to the previous days when issues like the adani controversy also sparked chaos.
Opposition leaders argue that despite the government's previous promises, MSP remains a contentious issue, and without a legal guarantee, farmers are left vulnerable to market fluctuations and exploitation. They also emphasize the need for a permanent commission to monitor farm loan waivers and implement MSP with greater transparency and regulation.
.However, the ruling government, led by the BJP, has shown resistance to making MSP a legal entitlement, citing concerns about market dynamics and the potential economic burden. The government has also suggested that MSP adjustments are made regularly and are not a matter for legal intervention.
While the opposition is likely to continue pushing for these demands through adjournment motions and protests, it remains to be seen whether the ruling party will concede to the MSP guarantee. Historically, such demands have led to disruptions, but substantive policy changes have been rare.