 |
|
The ongoing farmers' protest in India continues to escalate, with farm unions announcing a two-hour rail roko protest on October 3, the third anniversary of the Lakhimpur Kheri incident. This incident, which occurred in 2021, saw the deaths of eight people, including four farmers and a journalist, during a protest against the now-repealed three farm laws. Ashish Mishra Teni, son of former union minister Ajay Mishra Teni, remains the main accused in the case.
Farm leader Sarwan Singh Pandher, convener of Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, stated that the protest aims to demand justice for the victims and pressure the government into fulfilling their demands. He emphasized that the protest is part of a larger movement and that further announcements regarding future actions will be made. The unions are calling for a legal guarantee for MSP (Minimum Support Price) and other demands, seeking to advance to Delhi for a peaceful demonstration.
In preparation for the upcoming Haryana assembly elections scheduled for October 5, farm unions have announced two mahapanchayats in Jind (September 15) and Pipli (September 22). The purpose of these gatherings is to mobilize farmers and highlight the perceived anti-farmer policies of the Central government. Pandher stated that the 'Delhi Chalo' march, ongoing since February 13, has faced attempts to suppress it, but the farmers remain undeterred. He also emphasized the intention to question BJP candidates during the Haryana elections regarding their stance on issues affecting farmers.
Tejveer Singh, spokesperson for the Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU-Shaheed Bhagat Singh), echoed Pandher's sentiments, stating that the protests are intended to hold the BJP accountable for its 'anti-farmer' decisions. Specifically, Singh plans to question BJP candidates about the government's actions in preventing farmers from marching to Delhi. Pandher expressed confidence that the BJP would face electoral setbacks in Haryana, similar to those experienced in rural North India during the recent Lok Sabha elections. He highlighted the importance of informing voters about the perceived anti-farmer policies of the BJP.
Source: Farm leaders announce 2-hour rail roko protest on October 3 to mark 200 days of farmers’ stir