Farmers’ unions led by Smyukat Kisan Morcha went to Kisan Bhavan for a meeting with CM Bhagwant Mann. In the latest development, farmers gheraoed Mohali DC office. Police put barricades to stop farmers at the DC office.
The newly formed AAP government is facing the wrath of Punjab farmers. But the government is all set to take head-on with farmers. Even the police are also being given special training. A recent example of this is observed at the Trident Factory's Arun Memorial where the Barnala Police is imparting training to local police officers.
Almost 5000 police personnel have been called from across the state and a six-layered security net has been created to stop farmers. Tear gas and water cannons were also present there.
What are the demands?
Farmers have presented 10 demands.
- A bonus of Rs 500 per quintal on wheat, damaged due to heatwave
- Lowering of charges of electricity load from Rs 4,800 to Rs 1,200.
- MSP for Maize and Basmati.
- Stop expropriation of Panchaayti lands.
- Stop issuing warrants against farmers who are in debt.
- Give relaxation on loan
- Allow sowing paddy from 10 June.
- Waive lone up to 2 Lakh Rupees.
- Stop the implementation of chip meters.
- Give arrears of Sugarcane crop.
36 leaders of 23 organizations under the umbrella banner of SKM went to the meeting. Yesterday Punjab CM already said that this protest is unwarranted. Mann said doors are always open for the farmers to hold talks but "hollow slogans" will not be able to break his resolve to check further depletion of the water table.
Former PPCC chief Sidhu also poses questions to Mann alleging the mere announcement of the AAP government has no means. No notification has been issued for MSP on Maize and Moongi, he tweeted.