Punjab's Farmers Strike Back: Major Road Blockades Disrupt Traffic Across the State

Punjab recently witnessed a statewide shutdown, initiated by the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, in response to the government's refusal to meet the demands of the protesting farmers.

Farmers in Punjab initiated a protest Monday, leading to the blocking of roads in various locations throughout the state. The action was part of a Punjab bandh, which significantly disrupted commuter traffic.

The Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-political) alongside Kisan Mazdoor Morcha had called for this shutdown last week, citing the government's failure to address the demands of the protestors. The bandh is scheduled to take place from 7 am to 4 pm, during which farmers are conducting sit-ins at significant points, notably at the Dhareri Jattan Toll Plaza, severely affecting traffic flow on the Patiala-Chandigarh National Highway.

In Amritsar, farmers gathered at Golden Gate, a crucial entry point to the city, while others obstructed roads in Rampura Phul, Bathinda, demonstrating the widespread nature of the protest. Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher stated that, despite the complete bandh, essential services would not be hindered. He noted that operations for emergency services would continue, allowing individuals traveling for critical reasons—such as catching flights, attending job interviews, or participating in weddings—to proceed uninterrupted.

In a separate but related matter, Jagjit Singh Dallewal, a 70-year-old farmer leader, continues his hunger strike, now entering its 35th day. Dallewal has thus far declined medical assistance and remains steadfast in his commitment to not end his fast until the government meets the farmers' demands. Hundreds of farmers have been protesting at the Punjab-Haryana border, advocating for a legal guarantee of a minimum support price (MSP) for their crops.

The Supreme Court has given the Punjab government until December 31 to convince Dallewal to seek medical treatment at a hospital. The court has permitted the state to request logistical support from the central government if required. Farmers, represented by SKM (Non-Political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, have been protesting at the Shambhu and Khanauri border points since February 13. Their attempt to march to Delhi was thwarted by security forces.

An earlier initiative saw a group of 101 farmers attempting to walk to Delhi three times between December 6 and 14, only to be halted by Haryana's security personnel. In addition to the demand for a legal MSP, the farmers are also advocating for a range of issues including a waiver on debts, pensions for older farmers, no increase in electricity tariffs, the withdrawal of police cases against protestors, and justice for the victims of the violent events in Lakhimpur Kheri in 2021.

The ongoing protests underline the farmers' determination to secure their livelihoods and rights, reflecting their frustration with the government’s inaction on these critical issues. As the situation continues to evolve, the farmers' resolve remains unyielded, prompting ongoing discussions and engagement with authorities.