Farmers’ protests face fresh controversy as T.B. Sarath alleges opposition links, illicit liquor networks, and corruption behind unrest.
Farmers’ protests are being organized by illicit liquor brewers, corrupt individuals, and opposition-backed groups, Deputy Minister T.B. Sarath has claimed, warning that he will expose their activities before the country.
Deputy Minister T.B. Sarath stated that he is prepared to reveal the notorious backgrounds and alleged corrupt dealings of certain farmer leaders who are currently organizing demonstrations in the name of farmers.
Commenting on a protest held in the Aranagangawila area, the Deputy Minister stressed that those operating behind these agitations are not genuine farmers, but political agents working on behalf of the Opposition.
He alleged that the present protests are being driven by political groups linked to the SJB, UNP, and the combined opposition. According to him, their objective is not to resolve the real problems faced by farmers, but to destabilize and topple the government.
The Deputy Minister further said information has been received that certain individuals posing as farmer leaders are enjoying benefits from the government while also engaging in corrupt activities at village level, including illicit liquor brewing.
He warned that the names and details of these individuals would be placed before the public through future media briefings, adding that their frauds and corrupt activities would not be allowed to remain hidden.
Sarath also pointed out that farmers at present do not hold large quantities of paddy stocks, and that most of the available paddy stocks are in the hands of mill owners.
He further stated that the Paddy Marketing Board will resume purchasing paddy when the next harvest season begins.
While the government is ready to identify the genuine problems of the people and provide solutions, Deputy Minister T.B. Sarath said there is no public backing for agitations carried out by a small group for political purposes.
