BJP leader turns down call for debate with farmers

His response comes a day after the farmers’ association announced a reward of Rs 1 crore if he proves that the Centre does not have any role in the implementation of the scheme.

“What I said on the power transmission tower issue has been misinterpreted. If there is no alternative place to erect towers without disturbing the farm lands, then it’s the Collector and district administration officials, who inspect, finalise and certify the land to execute the project. The Centre has no role in earmarking the land for the project,” he said.

The BJP leader said that he did not wish to debate the issue with the farmers and also wholeheartedly accept the views expressed by them as “I am also a farmer. I wish the Rs 1 crore reward announced by the farmers should be used for their welfare.”

Participating in a meeting in Palladam, Annamalai said that all arrangements are in place for ‘Vel Yatra,’ however the Congress and some opposition parties are trying to politicise it on communal lines. “The BJP is a party common to people from all religions. The youth are joining BJP being attracted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s administration and principles of the party,” he said.

Farmers have been protesting against the Power Grid Corporation and state government’s Tamil Nadu Transmission Corporation Limited erecting transmission towers in agricultural lands over the last few years and has increased their pitch with the arrival of Assembly polls.