Meenakshi Lekhi terms protesting farmers ‘mawalis’, issues apology after massive backlash
A senior video journalist of a leading media channel was allegedly attacked during the protest organised by farmers against the three farm laws in Delhi.
FollowUnion Minister of State for External Affairs Meenakshi Lekhi called the protesting farmers ‘mawalis’ (ruffians), inviting a sharp reaction from Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh, who demanded her “immediate resignation” and said her remarks reflect the BJP’s “anti-farmer” mindset.
After facing massive backlash over her comments on protesting farmers, Lekhi apologised for her words saying that they were misinterpreted.
As her comments created a furore, Lekhi later tweeted that her comments were “twisted” and that she withdraws her words if they have hurt anyone.
Responding to a question on the ongoing farmers’ protest during a press conference at the BJP headquarters, Lekhi said, “Phir kisan aap un logon ko bol rahe hain; mawali hain wo (you are calling them farmers again; they are ruffians),” she said.
"During a press conference today, my comment was sought on the Red Fort violence on January 26 and the attack on a media person (at Farmers' Parliament). In response, I said only hooligans, not farmers can indulge in such activities," the newly inducted Union Minister of State for External Affairs said Thursday.
"My words have been distorted, if it has hurt farmers or any anyone else, then I apologise and take back my words," the minister said.
At a press conference, she said, “They are playing in the hands of some conspirators. Farmers don’t have time to sit in Jantar Mantar. They are working in their farms. Middlemen are behind them (protesters) who do not want farmers to get benefits.”
Lekhi also said the protesters are “playing in the hands” of some conspirators. “Farmers don’t have time to sit at Jantar Mantar. They are working in their farms. Middlemen are behind them (protestors), who do not want farmers to get benefits,” she said.
An aide of Lekhi’s said she was responding to questions specifically asked by a reporter on the alleged attack on a cameraperson at Jantar Mantar.
She said such attacks are criminal incidents whose cognisance should be taken.
The cameraperson was injured after he was allegedly attacked by a freelance journalist on Thursday at Jantar Mantar where the farmers are protesting against the new agri laws, police said.
The cameraperson has been identified as Nagendra Gosain, police said.
A senior police officer said Gosain was attacked by Prabhjot Singh, a freelance journalist.
Gosain said Singh was abusing mediapersons in the morning and was also recording it. Singh also used foul language against a woman journalist, he said.
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