Khumtai MLA Mrinal Saikia has appealed to Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma to provide relief to farmers in view of recently introduced restrictions on the purchase of petrol and diesel, expressing concern over their potential impact on agricultural activities.
In a post on X, Saikia referred to notifications issued by the Central Government regarding fuel procurement and claimed that the new regulations prohibit the supply of fuel in containers and other non-vehicle modes at fuel stations.
The BJP legislator said the restrictions could create serious difficulties for farmers who depend on fuel to operate tractors, power tillers, irrigation pumps and other agricultural machinery.
According to Saikia, a large number of farmers transport fuel separately for use in their fields, and the new rules may adversely affect cultivation activities across the state.
Tagging Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and Assam Minister Pijush Hazarika in his appeal on social media, the MLA urged the state government to seek exemptions or introduce special provisions for the farming community.
He stressed that uninterrupted access to fuel for agricultural purposes is vital to safeguard farmers’ interests and ensure that farming operations are not disrupted in Assam.
