Farmers in Punjab are gearing up for a significant protest this Saturday, voicing their grievances over pressing issues impacting the agricultural sector.
The Punjab Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Samiti, led by Sarwan Singh Pandher, has called for a blockade of major highways in the Majha, Malwa, and Doaba regions.
This demonstration addresses several critical concerns, including the recent FIRs filed against farmers for stubble burning, sluggish paddy procurement processes, and a controversial 30% reduction in the supply of diammonium phosphate (DAP) fertilizer.
Sarwan Singh Pandher stated, “We will completely block the highways in Batala, Sangrur, Phagwara and Megha.”
The planned protest comes on the heels of a previous demonstration, where members of the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM) temporarily blocked roads across Punjab for four hours on Friday.
This action caused significant traffic disruptions, affecting thousands of commuters, but thankfully, no incidents of violence were reported.
Emergency services, including ambulances and school transportation, were exempt from the blockades, allowing critical services to continue.
The farmers have expressed their frustrations, particularly regarding the state government’s decision to limit DAP fertilizer stocks.
With reduced access to essential farming inputs, many fear the long-term consequences for crop yields and agricultural sustainability.
SKM leader Balbir Singh Rajewal criticized both the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) state government and the BJP-led central government for what he termed a failure to address the plight of farmers.
“They should focus on solutions rather than shifting blame,” he emphasized, urging both parties to prioritize the agricultural community and its economic challenges.
Additionally, Charan Singh Noorpura, president of the Bharatiya Kisan Union (Ekta-Ugrahan) in Ludhiana, pointed out that corporate interests are exploiting open market policies, placing small-scale farmers at a disadvantage.
Also Read: Jaish-e-Mohammed Claims Responsibility For Botapathri Attack; Raises Concerns Over Weapon Use
