Punjab Farmers Launch Mass Agitation Against Crop Procurement Policies

Farmers and allies in Punjab are preparing a mass protest on October 13 against government crop procurement policies. Discontent stems from delays in crop purchases. A 'Chakka Jam' is planned, and further action may resemble past farmer protests on the Delhi border if concerns aren't addressed.

Amid escalating tensions, farmers, commission agents, and rice millers in Punjab have announced plans for a significant protest against the government's handling of crop procurement policies. Scheduled for October 13, the planned agitation is a response to the government's failure to commence crop procurement post October 1, causing widespread dissatisfaction.

Farmer leader Balbir Singh Rajewal voiced his concerns at a crucial meeting, declaring that Punjab will not permit further degradation of its agricultural sector. The protest, tagged as a 'Chakka Jam', will see widespread road blockages from noon to 3 PM across Punjab. Further strategic meetings among farmer unions are planned for October 14 at Kisan Bhawan.

The latest movement follows a 'Rail Roko' protest earlier this month, marking the anniversary of the 2021 Lakhimpur Kheri incident, disrupting several train services in Punjab. The farmers are steadfast in demanding a legal guarantee for the Minimum Support Price, as they escalate efforts to compel government action.

(With inputs from agencies.)