Farmers engaged in the ‘Delhi Chalo’ march have asserted their determination to continue their protest until their demands are addressed, as stated by farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher on Saturday. He hinted that the agitation might persist even after the implementation of the model code of conduct for the Lok Sabha elections.
Despite four rounds of discussions between Union ministers and farmer representatives resulting in a deadlock, the protesters carried out a candle march at Shambhu and Khanauri on the Punjab-Haryana border to honor a farmer who died during the ongoing agitation.
Shubhkaran, a 21-year-old from Bathinda, lost his life in clashes at Khanauri while attempting to breach barricades set up by security personnel. His cremation is pending until the Punjab government orders an FIR against those accountable for his demise.
Authorities in Delhi have commenced the partial reopening of the Singhu and Tikri border points with Haryana, nearly two weeks after their closure due to the farmers’ march. This move follows the protesters’ announcement of suspending the march until the end of the month.
KMM leader Pandher declared that the agitation will persist until their demands are met, with a decision on the next steps expected by February 29. He expressed indifference towards the model code of conduct, stating that their focus is not on campaigning for MPs.
As barricades and blockades at Singhu and Tikri are being removed, one lane of each border point is being opened to facilitate vehicular movement, providing relief to commuters traveling between Delhi and Haryana.
Meanwhile, the Congress’ Punjab unit staged a protest, demanding the registration of an FIR against Haryana Home Minister Anil Vij over the police action against farmers. Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has announced compensation and a government job for the deceased farmer’s sister.
In addition to their demands for MSP guarantee and implementation of the Swaminathan Commission’s recommendations, the farmers plan to conduct seminars and burn effigies protesting against the WTO agreement and the government on February 25 and 26, respectively. Meetings of various farmer forums are scheduled for February 27 and 28.
