
Farmers can apply to the Sub-Divisional Magistrate under Sec.4 for dispute resolution if any conflict arises with the agents as per the new farm law.
The Indian government has introduced time-bound procedures for dispute resolution between the farmer and a trader through the Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement on Price Assurance and Farm Services Act, 2020. Chapter 3 of the Act provides for a dispute resolution mechanism for farmers. In case of any dispute between a farmer and trader, they can seek a mutually agreeable solution through conciliation. Under Section 4, they can apply to the Sub-Divisional Magistrate, who shall appoint a Conciliation Board to facilitate a dispute settlement. The law also states that the Conciliation Board should consist of a chairperson and two to four members as the Sub-Divisional Magistrate may deem fit.
This conciliation process should be completed within thirty days of the board's appointment. Suppose the board fails to settle the dispute. In such a case, any of the involved parties can approach a Sub-Divisional Authority, who will have to decide on the matter within thirty days of application.
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