Farmers demanding a law guaranteeing Minimum Support Price (MSP) and other key reforms are set to march to Delhi again from the Shambhu border on Sunday. This protest marks the 300th day of their agitation. Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher stated that their struggle continues despite repeated clashes with authorities.
On Friday, a confrontation between protesting farmers and Haryana Police resulted in serious injuries to many farmers, with nine others sustaining minor injuries. One of the injured farmers has reportedly lost their hearing. Pandher expressed solidarity with the injured, whom he visited earlier, and reiterated the farmers' resolve to continue their movement.
A joint press conference was held on Saturday by the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha (KMM) at the Shambhu border. Sarwan Singh Pandher slammed the Central government for its silence on the farmers' demands.
"We have not received any communication from the central government," he said. "Tomorrow (on Sunday), a delegation of 101 farmers will march to Delhi at around 12 noon."
Pandher also alleged that the government’s refusal to allow peaceful protests exposed its "real face." He said that the protesters are now traveling on foot instead of using tractors and trolleys, yet they are still being blocked from entering Delhi.
"We Are Ready for Talks"
Addressing the media, Pandher emphasized that the farmers have always been open to dialogue. "The central and state ministers claimed we were disruptive because we used tractors. Now we are marching on foot, yet we are stopped. If we could reach Delhi, we would directly ask the Prime Minister our questions," he said.
Pandher viewed Friday’s confrontation as a "moral victory" for the farmers. He reiterated their willingness to engage in discussions with the Union Agriculture Minister, urging the government to address their grievances. He announced that while the march was suspended on Saturday, it would resume on Sunday.
Farmers Question Govt’s Approach
In the aftermath of the clash, Pandher questioned the government’s response to unarmed protesters. "Why are we being treated like enemies?" he asked. The police action, he said, injured eight farmers seriously, with two in critical condition. Despite sending a disciplined delegation of 101 members, the farmers were met with barricades and force.
Pandher expressed frustration at the government’s reluctance to engage constructively. "The Government used force to stop us. We were unarmed and marched peacefully. Yet, our legitimate questions remain unanswered," he said.
As the protest crosses a significant milestone, the farmers remain resolute in their demand for legislative assurances on MSP and other reforms. With another march planned, all eyes are on how the government responds to the growing unrest.
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