Farmers’ Protests in Punjab: A Statewide Shutdown
Farmers’ protests have taken center stage in Punjab, leading to significant traffic disruptions on major routes, including the Patiala-Chandigarh National Highway. The statewide shutdown, scheduled from 7 am to 4 pm on December 30 and 31, aims to draw attention to the farmers’ long-standing demands.
Emergency Services Unaffected
While the Punjab Bandh will impact regular traffic, emergency services will continue to operate. Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher confirmed that medical services and critical travel to airports for flights and job interviews will not be obstructed. “The bandh will be observed from 7 am to 4 pm. However, emergency services will remain operational,” he stated.
Areas Affected by the Shutdown
Key cities like Amritsar and Chandigarh are expected to face traffic disruptions, with protests occurring at strategic locations such as the Dhareri Jattan Toll Plaza. Farmers have also gathered at prominent entry points, including Amritsar’s Golden Gate and blocked roads in Bathinda’s Rampura Phul.
The Core Demand: Minimum Support Price
The protests primarily focus on the demand for a legal guarantee of the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for crops. This issue has persisted for years, with hundreds of farmers stationed at the Punjab-Haryana border. Notably, protestor Jagjit Singh Dallewal has been on a hunger strike for over a month, insisting on government action regarding their demands.
Supreme Court’s Involvement
The Supreme Court has intervened, allowing the Punjab government until December 31 to persuade Dallewal to seek medical treatment. Additionally, the government can request logistical support from the Centre if necessary.
Farmers remain steadfast in their demands, which also include debt waivers, pensions, no hikes in electricity tariffs, and justice for those affected by the 2021 Lakhimpur Kheri violence.
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