But Modi's virtual public address on Friday was not focused on the laws under contention. The farmers Modi spoke with on Friday praised his scheme - but none were among the thousands who have been protesting. Modi repeatedly said "some people" were spreading lies and rumours about farmers' troubles, and dismissed the protests as motivated by political opponents. At least six rounds of talks between Modi's government and farmer leaders on the new laws have failed. Modi alleged that Banerjee's government was not allowing the farmers in its state to benefit from Modi's federal scheme.

Source: Dhaka Tribune December 25, 2020 08:37 UTC