Opposition Hits Out At Government At Farmers' Mega Rally In Delhi

Thousands of farmers, some barechested in the November cold and others carrying skulls of loved ones who committed suicide, gathered at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi today to demand loan waivers and better prices for their produce. The protest paved the way for two political leaders -- Congress president Rahul Gandhi and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief Arvind Kejriwal -- to come together on the same stage for the first time, along with representatives of like-minded parties. Mr Gandhi, in his address, said India currently faces two challenges: the bleak future of its farmers and unemployment of its youth. "The farmers seek what they are owed from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, but all they get are empty speeches," he added. Mr Kejriwal, for his part, termed the centre's flagship insurance scheme for farmers as just another ploy to fleece them. The rally ended by evening, with the government offering no response or assurance.