Thread by @Bhuvanbagga

Evening, earlier today.

Afternoon, earlier today.

Afternoon, earlier today.

I saw this and can totally relate to @BDUTT’s expressions during the exchange. More on Mr *this is revolution* later. But after two days around #FarmersProtests, a few observations and a question for the media. A 🧵👇

https://twitter.com/BDUTT/status/1332711966893166593?s=20

I feel the most important question for the media today is how (and who) defines such mass gatherings? It is just as important for the organisers of such events and the citizens too, because *this* ultimately decides what we debate.

But this correct ‘labelling’ is increasingly tricky in the age of social media – where only the most extreme goes viral – and ends up painting 1000s, who may have little or no interest in the ideas of the fringe. One person, by choice or chance, can now make or break a movement.

Coming back to the #FarmersProtest and the delusional fringe, I saw and met at least three (see one pic) similar characters. After attending 100s (likely 1000s) of such mass events in last decade, I say it’s par for a crowd of 1000s.

You always have fringe deviations in such mass gatherings. Some actually believe it while many (I’ve met) apparently know that it can get them quick selfish publicity. BUT is it fair to tag 1000s of individuals (or voters) one way or other based on a few stray comments?

At the protests, I met and spoke with dozens who were ordinary protesting citizens – a mix of farmers; people associated with markets and some political foot soldiers. But isn't that normal in a democracy.

Many were afraid of the change. The entry of big money and upending of their market systems and networks developed over decades. Even if their fears are entirely selfish (or bad arguments), it’s normal for citizens to fear change and protest it, no?

Many others were actually ill informed (once again, it's normal thing at most Indian mass gatherings/ rallies). Others, for whatever reasons, had gamed worst-case scenarios about the future after these changes. But going by our record India done *this* many times?

To link these men to fringe fanatics sitting in distant cuckoo lands is a disservice to the overwhelming majority and self. Btw, on ground, you’ll realise the socio-religious (Sikhs and Hindus) diversity of the protestors. They have diverse personal & social affiliations.

I think I observed 3 different political strands. Those linked to the Left, I think, were most well organised. And even within these groups, there was a clear divide between the young (and restless), and the calmer older men.

But ofcourse it helps ‘narratives’ when you can paint it all white or black, one way or the other. And that is what is happening. Also, a crowd of a few 1000 in India – home to 17% of all humans – is (should) not be a big thing.

Many said that it’d have been a lot calmer (especially with the younger lot) if the govt handled it better and let them make some noise (ofcourse as long as it was without violence or obstruction to the locals).

Two more points: 1) We should really discuss if we want to continue using kids as props for media in protests and political events. It sure makes for ‘viral’ posts but I’ve seen clueless kids at multiple protests now responding to all kinds of prompts.

2) Stop using words like Anndaata when discussing farmers. Sorry, but that ensures everything we talk about them is superficial and reverential. Farmers sure may be doing extraordinary things – but they can both be good and wrong at the same time.

If anything, we may need even more changes than already announced. Farming in the north (the traditional food basket) today is anything but productive. It guzzles water, which is our biggest (proxy) export – and we’d regret it very soon.

If it isn't competitive even after all the waivers and subsidies -- it's because it needs wholesale change. And since no political entity will directly touch these issues (votes!) maybe this will lead to tough and much needed changes in the way we do things in the sector.