[BREAKING] Farm Laws Repeal Bill passed in Lok Sabha

The Lok Sabha has passed the Farm Laws Repeal Bill 2021, which proposes to repeal the three contentious Farm Laws.

The Bill was passed via voice vote without any discussion.

As per the legislative business published on the website of the Lok Sabha, the Farm Laws Repeal Bill 2021 was tabled by Union Minister of Agriculture Narendra Tomar, with the objective to repeal:

1. The Farmers' Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Act, 2020;

2. The Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement of Price Assurance, Farm Services Act, 2020;

3. The Essential Commodities (Amendment) Act, 2020

Importantly, under the 'Statement of Objects and Reasons' of the repeal bill, it was stated:

"Even though only a small group of farmers are protesting against these laws… As we celebrate the 75th Year of Independence - Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, the need of the hour is to take everyone together on the path of inclusive growth and development." (emphasis added)

The decision to withdraw the 3 contentious farm laws, was first announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a special address to the nation on November 19.

Farmers from Punjab, Haryana and Western Uttar Pradesh have been protesting against the laws for more than a year outside the Delhi borders.

On January 12, the Supreme Court had stayed the implementation of the same.

The apex court had also ordered the formation of a committee to hear all parties and stakeholders, and submit a report to the Court about the same. The Committee had, subsequently, submitted its report in March.

The Court had, however, not heard the matter subsequently.

Besides petitions challenging the laws, there are many petitions before the top court against farmers blockading the roads at Delhi's borders.

[Read the repeal bill's Statement of Objects and Reasons]