In the latest development, the farmers at the Sambhu border have called off their demonstration. As the ‘rail-roko’ protest has ended, all railway tracks will be cleared however roads will still be blocked. People travelling by road will still have to face some problems whereas the issue of delay and cancellation of trains will end.
For the unversed, two farmers’ organizations had been jamming the railway tracks from 17th March 2024 demanding the release of 3 farmers including youth leader Navdeep Singh Jalbeda. Due to these ongoing protests several trains were cancelled, delayed and many even diverted. After holding a meeting, farmers announced to clearing of railway tracks. They also stated that they will continue to protest on roads against PM Modi. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be visiting Punjab and addressing rallies in Patiala on 23rd May 2024. PM Modi will also be attending the rally in Jalandhar and Gurdaspur on 24th May 2024. The farmers have announced that they will be protesting against all BJP candidates ahead of PM’s visit.
Earlier on 5th January 2022, the Prime Minister’s convoy was stranded on a flyover during his Punjab visit. The flyover was blocked by farmers demanding him to take back the farm laws. Due to the same, the PM has to return from Punjab without attending any events or rallies. This security breach was a part of a major political controversy at that time.