Amritsar: Farmers in Punjab announced on Saturday that they will continue their protests against the government, demanding timely paddy procurement and organizing a “chakka jam” (road blockade) in Sangrur, Bhatinda, Moga, Batala, and Gurdaspur. The protests also address police actions against farmers related to stubble burning.
Aranjeet Singh, district president of the Punjab Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee (PKMSC), stated that farmers will gather in Phagwara to discuss their concerns. He urged both the Punjab and central governments to resolve the issues promptly to avoid inconveniencing the public due to road blockades. However, he warned that if no action is taken, they will be compelled to block the roads.
In addition, farmers from Jaladhar joined other protesters heading to the Phagwara site to block the highway. A senior farm leader criticized the focus on stubble burning, arguing that pollution from factories and vehicles is often overlooked. He claimed that stubble burning contributes only two to three percent to pollution levels and accused the government of using it as a pretext to discredit farmers. He expressed that both the Punjab and central governments are intent on undermining farmers, which is why protests will continue indefinitely.
PKMSC General Secretary Sarwan Singh Pandher highlighted the lack of transparency from the Punjab government regarding rice stocks from the past two years still stored in warehouses. He criticized the government for not addressing this issue publicly and pointed out that while Chief Minister Kejriwal is active on social media, he has not addressed the paddy procurement situation despite the significant mandate given to him by the people of Punjab. The planned roadblocks will occur at four locations, including Sangrur, Moga, Phagwara, and Batala, and will persist until their demands are met.