Violence after farmers’ protests have left six dead in northern India. Riots broke out in the state of Uttar Pradesh after two demonstrating farmers were killed.
Indian media reports that a vehicle rammed into a crowd of demonstrating farmers. The car is said to have been part of a convoy of a politician from the ruling party BJP. Party officials say it was an accident.
The driver is said to have lost control of the wheel after protesters threw stones at the car. The two farmers were hit by a car and died instantly. The farmers had gathered to demonstrate against major agricultural reforms.
After the fatal accident, disturbances broke out. Three BJP members are said to have been killed, as was the driver of the car and two more farmers. The local authorities have launched an investigation into the violence, which in turn led to more protests elsewhere in the state.
Agricultural reforms
In India, farmers have been demonstrating against controversial agricultural reforms for nearly a year. They want Prime Minister Modi’s government to repeal the new agricultural law.
The law relates to free market forces. Until now, the government roughly determined the prices of rice and vegetables, but the government wants farmers to often conclude deals with buyers themselves and agree on a price together. The farmers fear that they will no longer receive a fair price.
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