Wed Feb 26 00:34:31 UTC 2025: ## Maharashtra Congress to Stage Statewide Protests Over Farmers’ Issues
**Mumbai, February 26, 2025** – The Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) announced large-scale protests against the state government’s handling of farmers’ issues and broader governance concerns. A statewide protest is scheduled for March 3rd, coinciding with the first day of the Maharashtra Assembly’s budget session. This will be followed by demonstrations in municipal areas on March 4th to highlight issues related to urban development and public services.
MPCC President Harshvardhan Sapkal criticized the BJP-Shiv Sena government for failing to deliver on promises of farm loan waivers and for allowing agricultural produce prices to plummet. He cited examples of soybean selling significantly below the minimum support price (MSP), impacting farmers’ livelihoods. The Congress also condemned the government’s decision to import toor dal, arguing it further harms domestic farmers.
Sapkal accused the BJP government of being anti-farmer and pro-corporate, highlighting a three-year delay in local body elections, resulting in administrative paralysis and mismanagement. He alleged that the delay is a deliberate tactic to maintain control. He further criticized the centralization of power under Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The Congress will also undertake a “Sadbhavana Padyatra” (harmony march) in Beed district from March 8th to 9th to address social divisions. This march will start in Massajog village, recently in the news due to a violent crime. The party also demanded transparency regarding the recent vetting of personal assistants and officers on special duty in the Chief Minister’s office, calling for the public disclosure of individuals deemed unsuitable for appointment.
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