20000306KBP demands interest-free loans as per SC decision

RECORDER REPORT

LAHORE: Kissan Board Pakistan (KBP) has demanded of the government to implement the Supreme Court decision on abolition of 'Riba' and provide interest free loans to the growers.

Addressing a news conference soon after chairing an All Pakistan Farmers Convention held here on Sunday, KBP President Sadiq Khan Khakwani said that except 'Usher,' the government should abolish all taxes levied on agriculture sector.

He said that if the government failed to accept their demands in light of the Supreme Court decision, the farmers will stage protest sit-ins in front of all the banks of the country from May 29. "We will stop paying dues to banks and will also cease to get loans from financial institutions, if the government does not give a serious thought to our demands, regarding abolishing interest on bank loans," Khakwani warned.

He said that if the government provides free of cost electricity to the farmers, the country can achieve autarky in food and fibre needs. Citing the example of East Punjab he said that the Indian government was also providing free of cost power to farmers to facilitate the agri sector.

The Government, he added, should also announce support price for all crops well before the sowing season and that must be based on the formula of production plus 20 percent profit. He also stressed the need for inter-provincial and inter-district movement of wheat as well as declaring the imposition of Section 114 in this regard as unlawful.

KBP President also suggested for provision of grading, packaging and Customs facilities for the apple exports from Quetta airport.

To create better leadership at local level, the KBP has decided to take part in the coming Local Bodies election, Khakawni announced.