Shiv Sena MLA Sanjay Gaikwad’s farmers suicide remark has sparked controversy after the Buldhana legislator suggested that people should avoid attending the last rites of farmers who die by suicide.
Gaikwad, who belongs to the Shiv Sena faction led by Eknath Shinde, made the comments while responding to a question about Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi chief Prakash Ambedkar’s recent description of farmers as “useless”.
The Maharashtra legislator argued that avoiding funerals could discourage other farmers from taking their own lives. His remarks drew attention because of the way he described the consequences of suicide and the difficulties faced by families left behind.
MLA Urges Distressed Farmers to Seek Help
During his remarks, Gaikwad urged farmers experiencing difficulties to approach their local MLAs, MPs or the government instead of dying by suicide.
He said farmers should communicate their problems to elected representatives so that assistance could be sought. He also highlighted the challenges spouses and children may face after losing a family member.
Referring to marriage commitments, the MLA said couples promise to remain together for seven lifetimes, arguing that suicide cuts that commitment short.
His comments combined an appeal for distressed farmers to seek help with a controversial suggestion about how society should respond after a farmer dies by suicide.
Gaikwad Has Faced Earlier Controversies
Gaikwad represents the Buldhana Assembly constituency in Maharashtra and is associated with the Shiv Sena faction led by Eknath Shinde.
The legislator has previously attracted attention for controversial public statements. His latest comments have again placed his remarks in the spotlight amid continuing concerns about agricultural distress and farmer suicides.
While Gaikwad urged farmers to contact elected representatives about their difficulties, the initial report did not detail any specific assistance measures announced alongside his comments.
Farmer distress remains an important public issue, involving financial pressures, access to support and the wellbeing of agricultural families. Responses to such distress require accessible support systems and timely intervention.
Farmers or families facing a mental health crisis should seek immediate help from trusted people and qualified professionals rather than face the situation alone.
For official information on agricultural support, visit the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.
Conversation
Be kind and stay on topic. Comments are moderated; abuse, spam and personal attacks are removed. Report a problem