Farmers protest: Major gathering planned at Punjab-Haryana borders to mark 200 days of farmers’ movement

PTC News Desk: Today marks the completion of 200 days of the ongoing farmers’ strike at the Shambhu and Khanuri borders between Punjab and Haryana.

To commemorate this milestone, a major gathering is taking place at these borders, with thousands of farmers from Haryana, Punjab, and other states arriving to participate. Olympic wrestler Vinesh Phogat is also attending the event, where she will be honoured on stage by the farmer organisations.

Sarwan Singh Pandher, a senior leader of the Kisan-Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee, confirmed that the Kisan Andolan 2.0 is marking its 200th day today. The stage is set for the large number of farmers expected at the Shambhu and Khanuri borders, with thousands anticipated to gather.

Key Highlights of Today’s Event:

• Central and Haryana Government Demands: The gathering will include calls for the Central and Haryana governments to open the borders to allow farmers to travel to Delhi for further protests. A significant emphasis will be placed on urging the Central government to enact the MSP (Minimum Support Price) Guarantee Act.
• Event Schedule: The main event is scheduled from 12 noon to 3 pm. During this time, Vinesh Phogat will be honored by the farmer organizations. The gathering will also include announcements about the future course of action.
• Press Conference: Farmer organizations will hold a press conference to outline their next steps and provide updates on their strategies.

Background of the Protest:

• Strike Initiation: The farmers’ strike began on February 13, 2024, with a focus on securing a minimum support price for crops. The situation led to heightened security measures, and the Haryana government closed the Shambhu border by erecting barricades.
• Impact on Traffic: The closure has disrupted traffic, causing significant issues for traders in Ambala. This situation prompted traders to seek legal intervention from the Punjab and Haryana High Court.
• Legal Proceedings: The High Court had instructed the Haryana government to open the border, but the matter has been escalated to the Supreme Court. The Supreme Court has ordered the maintenance of the status quo while the Punjab and Haryana governments continue negotiations with the farmers. Two rounds of meetings have occurred but ended without resolution.
• Formation of High-Level Committee: A high-level committee is being established to serve as a liaison between the farmers and the central government, aiming to facilitate discussions and negotiations.

Today’s gathering and the ongoing legal and political developments underscore the persistence of the farmers’ movement and their continued demands for policy changes and government action.