3 April
Sandeep Dhand Ludhiana
At a joint press conference in Chandigarh, the United Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and the Kisan-Mazdur Morcha announced their plans for widespread protests against recent government actions affecting farmers. Leaders expressed discontent over the government’s decision to eliminate several mandis and streamline the wheat procurement process directly to silos, equating it to a covert reinstatement of the contentious agricultural laws.
Scheduled for April 7, farmers across various districts will lead processions, burning effigies of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to safeguard agricultural markets, advocate for the release of incarcerated farmers, and demand consistent electricity supply to farming areas. Should their grievances remain unaddressed, farmers warned of further escalation, including the blockade of railway tracks at the Shambhu border on April 9, with potential for expanded disruptions in the days ahead.
The announcement underscores the persistent tensions between farmers and the government, highlighting the unresolved issues surrounding agricultural reforms and the contentious laws that sparked widespread protests in recent years. As farmers gear up for renewed demonstrations, the stage is set for another round of confrontation between agricultural stakeholders and policymakers.