BKU will remain apolitical, says Tikait
The Hindu
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The poll pundits are watching which way the Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) would tilt during the upcoming Assembly polls in Uttar Pradesh. In an interview with The Hindu, Rakesh Tikait, national spokesperson of the BKU, categorically stated that the union would remain apolitical and that he had no political ambitions.
“We are farmers and not into politics. Those who will work for their interests, farmers will elect them on their own,” he said.
There are indications that the U.P. government would increase the State Advisory Price (SAP) of sugarcane soon. Mr. Tikait said the BJP would try to distract farmers before the polls. “The party promised the rate of Rs.370 [per quintal] before the 2017 polls. Even if they increase the SAP after four years, the party has a lot to answer. Considering the inflation, the farmers would not settle for less than Rs.425 [per quintal],” he said.