Indian farmer leader Rakesh Tikait, a key figure in the recent farmers' protests in India, emphasized the importance of farmers voting according to their individual beliefs during the upcoming elections. He stated that farmers should exercise their voting rights and then return to join the ongoing protest, underlining the significance of remaining committed to the movement regardless of their political affiliations. Tikait refrained from openly supporting any specific political party, indicating that individuals should make informed choices based on their personal judgment when casting their votes, even during the model code of conduct period.
Tikait voiced concerns about the current political scenario, expressing a lack of faith in conventional political parties and suggesting that farmers are disenchanted with the existing system. He raised issues regarding the BJP's relationship with wealthy industrialists and its impact on farmers, implying that the party's actions are not aligned with farmers' interests. Despite his skepticism towards the ruling party, Tikait stopped short of endorsing any specific alternative, emphasizing the importance of individuals voting for candidates whom they believe will genuinely represent their concerns and interests.
Discussing the broader context of political engagement, Tikait highlighted the historical interactions between political parties and farmers, indicating a sense of disillusionment with unfulfilled promises and manipulative practices. He criticized the BJP's alleged interference in elections and insinuated a lack of transparency in the electoral process, suggesting that the ruling party utilizes various tactics to secure victories. Tikait's commentary on electoral strategies, manipulation allegations, and the dynamics of power play in Indian politics underscored his cautious approach towards endorsing political entities and his emphasis on individual agency in voting decisions.