The resumption of protests on the Punjab-Haryana border took a tragic turn as a 21-year-old farmer, identified as Subhkaran Singh, succumbed to a head injury, reigniting tensions in the region. Opposition parties, notably the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and Congress, have launched scathing criticisms against the Central government, accusing it of neglecting the demands of the farmers. Meanwhile, the BJP-ruled Haryana government extended the ban on mobile internet and bulk SMS services in seven districts until February 23 in response to the ongoing protests. Despite the escalating tensions, Union Minister Anurag Thakur reiterated the government’s willingness to engage in discussions with the farmers, recognizing them as the nation’s ‘Annadatas’.
Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher announced the suspension of the ‘Delhi Chalo’ march for two days, indicating a temporary halt in the protest activities. The decision comes as farmer unions deliberate on the next course of action, with further updates expected by Friday evening.
Farmer leaders condemned the alleged use of force by Central and Haryana security personnel against protesters at the Shambhu and Khanauri borders. Reports surfaced of security personnel entering the protest camp in Punjab territory and deploying tear gas shells, resulting in injuries to nearly 100 farmers.
Last week, the farmers temporarily halted their protest and engaged in discussions near the Shambhu border. However, talks with government ministers failed to yield significant progress, prompting the farmers to resume their march on Wednesday.
Central to the farmers’ demands is the enactment of legislation guaranteeing minimum prices for 23 crops, aimed at stabilizing their income. Additionally, they seek the fulfillment of promises made by the government, including loan waivers and withdrawal of legal cases stemming from previous protests.
Information and Broadcasting Minister Anurag Thakur reiterated the government’s commitment to doubling farmers’ income, citing measures such as doubling the Minimum Support Price (MSP) and increasing procurement. Thakur highlighted the significant investments made by the government in agricultural procurement over the past decade.
The Haryana government extended the suspension of mobile internet and bulk SMS services in seven districts, including Ambala, Kurukshetra, and Hisar, until Friday, citing concerns over security and public safety.
Clashes between protesting farmers and Haryana police at the Data Singh-Khanauri border resulted in injuries to at least 12 police personnel, according to reports from the Haryana administration.
NCP founder Sharad Pawar criticized the government’s handling of farmer issues, highlighting the disparity between Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s assurances and the realities faced by farmers, including growing debt and suicides.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath ordered the formation of a committee to address the concerns of farmers protesting against local authorities in Gautam Buddh Nagar, emphasizing the government’s commitment to resolving grievances through dialogue and mediation.
The developments surrounding the farmers’ protests underscore the deep-rooted challenges facing agricultural communities and the urgent need for comprehensive reforms to address their grievances and ensure their well-being.
As tensions persist and protests continue, the plight of farmers remains a pressing issue, demanding attention and concerted efforts from all stakeholders to achieve meaningful resolutions and address systemic concerns within the agricultural sector.
