Ambala (Haryana), December 16: The farmers’ agitation has gained momentum as they organized a tractor march to the Punjab-Haryana Shambhu border, where protests persist over their demands. The situation escalated following violent clashes with police, leaving 17 farmers injured, some critically.
The farmers, undeterred by the confrontations, have planned a series of protests, including a tractor march on December 16 and a statewide 'Rail Roko' in Punjab on December 18. Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher confirmed these actions, calling on Punjab residents, especially those near railway tracks, to join the December 18 blockade from 12 to 3 PM.
Pandher condemned the police’s use of force during an earlier march by a group of 101 farmers, known as the 'Jathha.' He alleged that police used chemical-laden water cannons, bombs, and tear gas to disperse the group, resulting in injuries and inadequate medical care for those affected. "We urge the Punjab government to ensure proper treatment for the injured farmers," Pandher demanded.
Meanwhile, Haryana Minister Anil Vij appealed to farmers to seek alternative ways to express their grievances. "Blocking trains will inconvenience many people. Protests should be carried out with permission from the Administration," Vij stated.
The protests center around key demands, including guarantees for Minimum Support Price (MSP) and opposition to corporate control of agriculture. Pandher also criticized Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for failing to raise farmers' issues effectively in Parliament. "We appeal to all Punjabis to participate in large numbers," he said, emphasizing unity in their struggle.
Despite the challenges, the farmers remain resolute in their cause, continuing to press for their demands against what they view as unjust agricultural policies.
