Video of Rewa MP Janardan Mishra's remarks on farmers goes viral, draws criticism and defence

A video of Rewa BJP MP Janardan Mishra of Madhya Pradesh is spreading rapidly on social media and has set off a controversy. In the video, Mishra is allegedly seen saying that farmers work only three months a year and spend the other nine months playing cards, chewing tobacco, drinking liquor and smoking ganja.

The remark was reportedly made at a Govardhan Puja event in Rakri village of Mauganj district. Addressing the gathering, Mishra allegedly said, "Farmers work hard for only three months a year; the other nine months they play cards, eat Rajshree, drink liquor and smoke chongi."

The statement drew attention after the video was widely shared. A post on X also said the MP had described farmers as working three months and spending the remaining nine playing cards and consuming Rajshree and chongi, meaning ganja. Many users questioned whether such words were appropriate from an elected representative.

Critics say farming is a year-round occupation that cannot be confined to the sowing and harvest seasons. According to them, a farmer must constantly arrange irrigation, procure fertiliser and seed, watch over the crop, cope with uncertain weather and deal with fluctuating market prices.

There is another side to the debate. Many people on social media called Mishra's remarks an insult to farmers, while others saw them as an expression of his colloquial style and a comment on village life.

So far, Mishra has offered no clarification on his statement. The video is still circulating online, and reactions are coming in from different sections of society.