.Prasad, a farmer from Thakazhi in the Kuttanad sector, had reportedly faced rejection when seeking bank loans for his agricultural activities due to outstanding PRS loan arrears. Distressed and desperate, he resorted to consuming poison after a phone conversation with his colleague and Bharatiya Kisan Sangh district secretary, Sivarajan.
The PRS loan is a crucial financial support system wherein farmers are paid promptly for their paddy after procurement, with the Kerala State Civil Supplies Corporation (Supplyco) guaranteeing the scheme. However, Prasad’s tragic end has sparked questions about the efficiency of this system.
Agriculture Minister’s assurances that PRS arrears would not impact farmers and agricultural bank loans have been met with scepticism following Prasad’s unfortunate demise.
State Governor Arif Mohammad Khan paid respect to the deceased farmer at the hospital, expressing concern over the government’s prioritization of luxuries and pensions over addressing the acute crisis faced by farmers.
Protests erupted, with BJP workers blocking the highway with Prasad’s body. BJP national executive member P. K. Krishnadas led the demonstration, decrying the government’s alleged negligence towards farmers.
Union Minister V Muraleedharan criticised the Pinarayi government for allocating funds extravagantly for “Keralayeeyam 2023” celebrations while neglecting the payment of legitimate dues to farmers.
Bharatiya Kisan Sangh labelled Prasad’s suicide as a state-sponsored murder and demanded the state cover the expenses for his last rites, along with a compensation of Rs 25 lakhs for his family.
BJP President K. Surendran accused the CPM-led government of murder, asserting that timely treatment could have saved Prasad’s life. He alleged mismanagement of funds and accused the finance minister of spreading misinformation about financial assistance from the union government.
Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh joined the chorus, demanding a compensation of Rs 25 lakhs for the bereaved family. The incident has ignited a larger debate about the government’s responsibility towards farmers and the efficacy of financial support systems in place.
