Pillars of Democracy in distress!

(The story of Indian farmers)

Participation, accountability,
reforms and sensitivity
The pillars of democracy
The Premier called out in vanity!

Amid blockades, tear gas, water cannon
and police atrocities
And against whom?
The feeders of the nation
The farmers
Who are not only sedulous,
They bring to the table
Forbearance,
hope and
vigilance!
So much for the sensitivity!

500 days and 750 deaths later
Braving the cold of winter
The heat of summer
The discomfort of rains
They win
Victory achieved
By mobilization, unity, and perseverance
They fought with
Civility, munificence
Running the protest with discipline and planning.
More than a hundred million farmers,
eight hundred million rely on their shoulders
With no concrete policies,
control 18 percent of national growth
Nearly 500 commit suicide with every cycle of the globe
So much for the accountability!

No basic facilities
No education
Not enough water
Not enough electricity
Minimum support price not guaranteed
Still expect them to perform
So much for the reforms!

Calling the protests propaganda of the deeds,
Tagging them as separatists,
Anti-nationals
Isolating them from the rest others in unison!
So much for the participation!

The pillars of the nation are in distress!
Offer them a base
Or else
Be ready for a final nail to a casket!

• Nandkishor Shingne