The representative of the farmers union not aligned with the Sanyukt Kosan Morcha in Patiala has demanded for allocation of area to carry out protests near PM Modi’s rally venue. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will come on a 2-day visit to Punjab. This visit is to campaign for upcoming LS Polls and also to boost the morale of BJP candidates. As per BJP State General Secretary Rakesh Rathour, PM Modi will address public rallies on Thursday and Friday. PM Modi will address a rally on 23rd May 2024 in Patiala during the second half of the day.
Farmers have stated that they need an area near PM Modi’s rally venue so that they can raise their issues in front of him. However, the police have declined the request of the farmer stating security concerns. Police stated that it would be difficult for them to maintain proper security if farmers gathered in the prescribed area for PM Modi’s address. The police officials are willing to allocate space to farmers near Dukhniwaran Sahib for holding their protest march. The farmers are adamant in their demand and want to stage a sit-in near the rally venue only. The farmers have been given the option to hold their peaceful sit-in protest on the outskirts of the city," a senior official said.
A senior IPS officer stated that they will hold talks with the farmers union at around 5 pm where decisions regarding the protest and rally will be taken. A senior official said, “Given the charged-up atmosphere, any place near the rally venue is impossible. We can't take chances which may lead to farmers' confrontation with BJP workers. Therefore, our priority is to find a way out. Now, another round of meetings will be held after lunch.”
PM Modi after addressing the rally in Patiala on 23rd May 2024 will join a public rally in Gurdaspur and Punjab on 24th May 2024.