Kisan Andolan Ground Zero is an important document of present times
New Delhi: This is the first attempt to document the historic farmers’ protest held recently. This is a unique work of field reporting, Mandeep is a young and straightforward journalist, he has written a daily diary of farmers’ protest in this book. This book is an important document of our times, farmers’ protest was an organic movement, no political party had the guts to build this movement, it was built by the people. These words were said by the speakers present at the launch of Mandeep Punia’s book ‘Kisan Andolan Ground Zero 2020-21’
Mandeep Punia’s book ‘Kisan Andolan Ground Zero 2020-21’ which objectively investigates the nationwide and most successful movement in the history of the country was launched at the Press Club of India on Thursday evening. Prof Manoj Kumar Jha- Rajya Sabha MP, Prof Anand Pradhan, Dr Navsharan Kaur- Sociologist and others were present as speakers on this occasion.
Speaking on this occasion, Prof Anand Pradhan said ,”this is the first attempt at documenting the historic farmers’ protest held recently and it will inspire others. The vibrant language with a touch of Haryanvi used by Punia in this book broadens the horizons of Hindi language. It reminds us of Phanishwar Nath Renu and is an unparalleled example of field reporting. Through his ground reporting, Mandeep has not just highlighted before the world the problems and struggles faced by Indian farmers but has also broken the monotony imbibed in journalism. He has given journalism new vigor and meaning by connecting it with mass movements. In today’s time when journalism is limited to 200-300 words, Mandeep has written such a comprehensive long book with patience.”
Dr Navsharan kaur said, “Mandeep is a young and straightforward journalist. He has written a daily diary of the farmers’ protest in this book and has done ground reporting. The perspective from which Mandeep has written this book should be noted and I will say that he has raised expectations from this book.
Many organizations were involved in the farmers’ protest, they had their share of differences, yet they managed to stick together amidst all challenges, this should be highlighted. Farmers’ unions have a long history, they are struggling even today and everyone from the young to the elderly have been active in it. They should not be seen differently. Mandeep has put a lot of effort in this book, particularly as it is a ground report in its essence. We hope he will also write how the ground which he has reported from was built in the first place. This was not a protest of the Sikhs, it was a protest by those farmers of the country who were fighting for their rights.”
Prof Manoj Kumar Jha said, “Mandeep has written what he has witnessed. I also congratulate Rajkamal Prakashan Samooh as they continue to publish books on such topics when it has become especially risky in these times. This book is an important document of our times. The farmers’ protest was an organic movement, no political party had the guts to build this movement, it was built by the people. Farmers’ protest jolted the arrogance of those sitting at the helm of political power. The historic movement showed that opposition in a democratic setup is limited not just to the parliament but you can see it on the streets when such circumstances arise.” He then recalled the atmosphere of the House on the day the three farm laws were passed. In the end, he said it would have been great if we could solve all the problems plaguing the country within the four walls of the parliament building, but it is no longer possible.
Author Mandeep Punia said, “I began writing this book so that the anger of farmers’ towards the government, the interaction of their leaders with the government, the attitude of the government towards them, and the interaction of farmers with their own leaders could be understood. This is a reportage in which I have tried to cover every necessary detail from the beginning of the farmers’ movement to its end.”
Commenting on the new book ‘Kisan Andolan Ground Zero’ Ashok Maheshwari, the chairman of Rajkamal Prakashan Samooh said, “The society is constantly evolving. With every change, we find answers to some questions, while some new questions and issues come to the fore. We consider it necessary to inform our readers about such issues and movements. The strength of democratic foundations of a society can be gauged from the discussions held therein. Debate and disagreements are necessary for a better society. Keeping this in mind, we published Mandeep Punia’s book from our imprint ‘Sarthak’. The farmers’ protest of 2020-21 proved to be one of the most crucial events of the post-independence era. It has been our priority to inform our readers about all such important developments. Rajkamal Prakashan has never shied away from its duties in 75 years of its history. The publication of Mandeep’s book is the newest example of this commitment.”