The farmer's agitation in Punjab has taken a decisive turn. Protest that disrupted operations at 48 railway stations across the streets concluded today at 3 PM, including a rail blockade in Moga.
However, the nonpolitical farmer's organization leading the movement has now announced a complete shutdown of Punjab on December 30 urging shopkeepers, traders, and the public to stand in solidarity.
Farmers call for ‘Punjab Band’
Farmer leader Balwant Singh Behramke, During a press conference, declared the Punjab bandh as a critical step in the ongoing struggle. Calling the protest “all or nothing” bad Behramke stated that the farmers would not back down until their demands were fully met.
“This is a decisive phase of our struggle. We urge everyone in Punjab to support us. The band is a collective stand for justice and rights of farmers,” Behramke said.
The farmers' movement which has garnered widespread attention is centred on a set of key demands.
1. Compensation for a farmer’s family: The group seeks immediate financial support for the family of a farmer who tragically ended his life at the Khanauri border by consuming pesticides.
2. Commitment to their goals: Brahmke emphasizes that the farmers are resolute and will not retreat until their objectives are achieved.
Prayers were also offered for farmers leader Dhallewal whose health has reportedly deteriorated during the protest. The 70-year-old Dallewal, a cancer patient, has been on a fast-unto-death at the Khanauri border point between Punjab and Haryana to press the Centre to accept the agitating farmers’ demands, including a legal guarantee of MSP on crops.
“All or nothing” movement Behrmke attempted to call support from the people of the state to join the statewide shutdown. “This time, we will not return empty-handed,” he declared. The farmers are determined to see their demands addressed before ending the agitation.
Altogether the situation raises questions about the potential impact of the statewide shutdown. All eyes are now on Punjab as the protest intensifies.