As farmers’ protest enters its 307th day, tensions have escalated with announcement of a renewed march toward Delhi by a group of 101 farmers, known as ‘Team 101.’ march, which begins today at noon from Shambhu Border near Ambala, Haryana, has reignited demands for justice and reforms that address longstanding grievances of farmers.
Haryana Government’s Response: Internet Suspension
In anticipation of protest intensifying, Haryana government has taken preventive measures, including suspending mobile internet and bulk SMS services in 12 villages in Ambala. These steps aim to contain potential disruptions, but they have also drawn criticism from farmer leaders and activists for allegedly curbing democratic right to protest.
Salient Points of Farmers’ Protest
ongoing protest spearheaded by Samyukta Kisan Morcha (non-political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha focuses on several key demands:
- Legal Guarantee for MSP (Minimum Support Price): Farmers are demanding legislation to ensure a guaranteed price for their crops, a cornerstone of their demands.
- Electricity Tariff Freeze: Protesters are pushing for a halt on any further hikes in electricity tariffs, which they argue disproportionately burden agricultural sector.
- Justice for Lakhimpur Kheri Victims: Justice for victims of 2021 Lakhimpur Kheri violence remains a significant demand.
- Withdrawal from WTO Agreements: Farmers argue that India’s commitments under WTO (World Trade Organization) harm local agriculture, and they demand withdrawal from these agreements.
- Improved Livelihood Reforms: protesters are advocating for broader reforms to uplift livelihoods of both farmers and laborers.
- Land Compensation Issues: Farmers from Noida and Greater Noida are raising grievances over land acquisition dating back to 1997. They demand 10% of abadi plots or equivalent compensation for lands acquired for industrial development.
‘Team 101’ March and Farmer Leadership’s Stance
march toward Delhi marks a new phase in movement. Farmer leader Pandher, representing group, accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan of ignoring farmers’ plight. “silence from government has been deafening, and farmers have been left with no choice but to intensify movement,” said Pandher in a media interaction.
Broader Implications of Protest
movement underscores broader struggles of farming community in India, including:
- Economic Stress: Rising input costs and stagnant crop prices have left many farmers in dire financial straits.
- Institutional Accountability: Protesters are demanding greater government accountability to ensure fair treatment and reforms that address systemic issues.
- Democratic Rights: suspension of communication services has highlighted concerns over balance between security measures and democratic freedoms.
Role of MSP in Farmers’ Livelihoods
demand for a legally guaranteed MSP is at heart of protest. Farmers argue that without an MSP law, they remain vulnerable to exploitation by middlemen and volatile market prices.
government has previously announced MSP rates for various crops, but protesting farmers claim these rates often do not cover production costs, leaving them in perpetual debt.
Key Grievances from Noida and Greater Noida Farmers
Farmers from Noida and Greater Noida, participating in broader movement, have distinct demands tied to historic land acquisitions. These include:
- Compensation for lands acquired in 1997.
- Allocation of 10% abadi plots for displaced farmers.
- Transparency in land acquisition and resettlement policies.
Government’s Position on Farmers’ Demands
While central government has acknowledged issues raised by farmers, significant disagreements remain. government has resisted calls for legal MSP guarantees, arguing that such laws could distort market. Similarly, discussions around WTO agreements and broader agricultural reforms remain unresolved.
Protest’s Impact on Public Opinion
ongoing farmers’ protest has polarized public opinion. Supporters view it as a legitimate fight for justice, while critics argue that prolonged demonstrations disrupt normal life and economic activity.
Table of Key Developments
| Key Developments | Details |
| Protest Duration | 307 days |
| Location of Protest | Shambhu Border, Ambala |
| March Participants | ‘Team 101’ – a group of 101 farmers |
| Key Demand | Legal guarantee for MSP |
| Other Demands | Electricity tariff freeze, justice for Lakhimpur Kheri victims, withdrawal from WTO agreements |
| Government Action | Suspension of mobile internet and bulk SMS services in 12 villages in Ambala |
| Farmer Organizations Leading Protest | Samyukta Kisan Morcha (non-political), Kisan Mazdoor Morcha |
| Notable Grievances from Noida Farmers | Compensation for 1997 land acquisitions, 10% abadi plots |
| Expected March Destination | Delhi |
Path Forward
As march toward Delhi continues, both central and state governments face mounting pressure to address farmers’ demands. protesters have called for nationwide support, urging citizens to join their cause and amplify their voices.
Conclusion
farmers’ march, led by ‘Team 101,’ symbolizes enduring struggle of India’s agricultural community. With demands ranging from MSP guarantees to systemic reforms, movement seeks to address deep-rooted issues affecting millions of farmers across country. onus now lies on government to engage in constructive dialogue and address these grievances in a way that upholds interests of both farmers and nation.
Disclaimer
This article is based on publicly available information and statements from individuals involved in farmers’ protest. content aims to provide a balanced view of events and does not endorse any political or organizational position. Readers are encouraged to verify facts independently.
