Opposition MP Jone Usamate has delivered a scathing critique of former Sugar Minister Charan Jeath Singh, asserting that his recent reassignment marks a pivotal turning point in the beleaguered sugar industry. Usamate described this change not just as a routine reshuffle but as a “mercy killing” for a sector he believes can no longer thrive under Singh’s stewardship.
In his comments, Usamate accused Singh of focusing excessively on international travel while ignoring pressing issues within the sugar sector. He characterized Singh’s time in office as exorbitant, spending significant amounts on global excursions rather than providing meaningful help to local farmers. Usamate noted that Singh’s travel expenses tally exceeded $138,000, with additional costs for the chairman surpassing $111,000, all while farmers faced unfulfilled promises and a lack of support.
Highlighting the disparity between Singh’s promises and reality, Usamate pointed out that 85,000 tonnes of sugarcane were left unharvested and deteriorating, illustrating a significant failure to uphold commitments made to benefit the industry. He asserted that this neglect constitutes a betrayal for the farming families whose livelihoods depend on their crops.
Furthermore, Usamate criticized Singh’s inadequate responses to farmers’ pleas for assistance and compensation, illustrating a disconnect between Singh’s management and the agricultural community’s hardships. He stated, “When farmers asked for help, he gave them ‘the rules’. When they asked for compensation, he gave them ‘politics’,” reflecting Singh’s apparent detachment from the real struggles faced by those in the sector.
Commenting on Singh’s reassignment to the Culture and Heritage department, Usamate underscored its symbolic significance, suggesting that it indicates the sugar industry has become a fading part of the economy rather than a thriving pillar. He concluded with a poignant remark, “You don’t move a winner,” insinuating that Singh’s transition is more indicative of failure than any kind of progress.
This exchange not only highlights persistent obstacles within the sugar industry but also underscores the urgent need for capable leadership and strategic support for local farmers. Addressing these challenges is essential for revitalizing an industry that remains a critical source of income for numerous families. The focus on reform and support for the agricultural sector offers a hopeful outlook for the future of farming communities and their sustainable development.