PM Modi repeals farm laws: SC panel member says PM chose 'politics over farmers' betterment'

Supreme Court-appointed farm panel member Anil Ghanwat today described as regressive the Central government's decision to repeal the three farm laws which were at the centre of protests by farmers for the past year.

"This is the most regressive step by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, as he chose politics over farmers' betterment," Mr Ghanwat told news agency Press Trust of India.

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"Our panel had submitted several corrections and solutions over the three farm laws, but instead of using it to solve the impasse, PM Modi and BJP chose to backtrack. They just want to win elections and nothing else," Mr Ghanwat said.

Addressing the nation this morning on the occasion of Guru Nanak Jayanti (Gurpurab), Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the three laws were for the benefit of farmers but "we couldn't convince a section of farmers despite best efforts".