Farmers in Punjab continued their protests for a second day on Sunday, pushing for various demands, including the procurement of paddy. As part of their demonstration, they set up roadblocks, referred to as “chakka jam,” in several areas such as Sangrur, Moga, Phagwara, and Batla. The Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee and the non-political Sanyukta Kisan Morcha participated in the protests.
Sarwan Singh Pandher, the Coordinator of Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, who was at the Phagwara protest site, stated, “The indefinite roadblocks initiated by both groups, focusing on paddy procurement, DAP, and stubble issues, have now entered their second day. Yesterday, the Chief Minister traveled to Delhi and mentioned that he had discussions with the Ministry of Home Affairs and JP Nadda. However, no agreement has been reached yet between the sellers and the center. Ravneet Singh Bittu needs to engage with both the center and the sellers to facilitate a resolution. The Chief Minister is currently occupied with campaigning in Hoshiarpur for the bye-elections, but he has promised to talk with us. The Punjab government has a different perspective on the stubble issue. The Chief Minister criticized the farmers yesterday in Delhi, accusing them of blocking highways.”
On October 26, farmers also protested against police actions related to stubble burning. On Saturday, Union Minister of Chemicals and Fertilizers, JP Nadda, met with Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann to address the availability of DAP (Di-ammonium Phosphate) fertilizer for the ongoing agricultural season in Punjab. The Chief Minister emphasized the urgent need for DAP supplies during this critical period. Following their discussion, Nadda assured Mann of the central government’s commitment to ensuring adequate DAP supplies for Punjab.
During the meeting, which included the Secretary of Fertilizers, the Chief Secretary of Punjab, and the Additional Chief Secretary, CM Mann acknowledged that 70 percent of DAP is imported, leading to shortages due to the Ukraine conflict and other international issues. He urged that the state’s need for DAP is most pressing until November 15, requesting the central government prioritize Punjab over other states that require it later.
Union Minister Nadda assured the Punjab delegation that the Department of Fertilizers was taking all necessary steps to ensure timely DAP supplies to the state. He emphasized that arrangements had been made to guarantee the continuous availability of DAP for Punjab’s farmers.
On Saturday, protests were held at four locations in Punjab, with the farmers deciding to maintain their roadblocks indefinitely until their demands are met.