Short Description:
Farmers are set to march to Delhi, spearheaded by a ‘jatha’ of 101 individuals, amidst heightened security and ongoing protests over crucial agricultural reforms.
Read Time:
3 minutes, 45 seconds.
Main Article:
In a significant development for agricultural politics in India, farmers are preparing to march towards the national capital, New Delhi. The march, organized by a group of 101 farmers under the banners of Samyukta Kisan Morcha and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, aims to draw attention to pressing issues faced by the farming community. It is set to commence at 1 PM from the Shambhu Border along the Ambala-Delhi highway amid increased security measures put in place by local authorities. Prohibitory orders have been enacted to prevent any unlawful assembly, restricting gatherings of five or more individuals.
The farmers’ demands focus on securing a legal guarantee for the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for their crops—a key issue that seeks to ensure the profitability and sustainability of agriculture in India. The farmers are also calling for a freeze on electricity tariff increases, justice for victims of the tragic 2021 Lakhimpur Kheri violence, and comprehensive reforms aimed at improving the livelihoods of both farmers and laborers. As the march approaches, tensions are running high. Police have established multilayered barricades, deploying paramilitary forces to maintain order. Onlookers are reminded that prior approval for public gatherings is necessary, prompting the Ambala district administration to urge farmers to reconsider their plans.
This march coincides with the 297th day of the continuous protest against various agricultural policies instituted by the government. An indefinite hunger strike by protesting farmers at the Khanauri border has entered its 11th day, shining further light on the plight of the agricultural sector. Notably, a similar attempt to march toward Parliament was thwarted earlier this week when farmers were stopped at the Noida border, leading to significant traffic disruptions in the region.
As the situation evolves, various farmer groups have highlighted distinct grievances tied to land acquisition, stressing their longstanding demand for a fair share of abadi plots or compensation for their lands, especially since the initial acquisitions began in 1997. This ongoing struggle underscores the broader narrative of discontent within India’s farming community, as they persist in their fight for recognition and justice.
Short Summary:
Farmers in India are marching to Delhi to advocate for crucial reforms, including a legal guarantee for Minimum Support Price and justice for protest victims. This significant movement reflects broader grievances in the agricultural community, highlighting ongoing challenges and efforts to secure their rights.
