Chandigarh: Farmer unions across Punjab have strongly reacted to the delay in wheat procurement following heavy crop damage caused by unseasonal rains and hailstorms. Expressing anger over alleged exploitation and low pricing, multiple farmer organizations have jointly announced a statewide “Rail Roko” protest.
Under the banner of Samyukt Kisan Morcha and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, along with support from Azad Kisan Morcha, the protest is scheduled for April 17 from 12 PM to 3 PM, during which railway traffic across Punjab will be halted.
Farmer leaders stated that if the government fails to relax procurement norms and immediately begin wheat purchase, the agitation will be intensified further.
The unions highlighted that farmers have already suffered due to earlier floods and are now facing severe losses due to recent adverse weather conditions, which have affected wheat quality. Despite this, both the Central and Punjab governments have allegedly failed to respond adequately.
Farmers claim that wheat is lying unsold in mandis, and traders are taking advantage of the situation by offering reduced prices. They termed it as “loot” and a “disrespect” to farmers’ hard work.
The protesting groups have also raised concerns over the lack of basic facilities in mandis, including shortage of gunny bags, inadequate sanitation, and absence of shade for farmers.
Leaders appealed to the people of Punjab to support their protest, stating that blocking railway lines is not a choice but a compulsion due to the ongoing crisis. They warned both the Central Government and the Punjab Government not to test the patience of farmers and demanded immediate procurement of wheat at full Minimum Support Price (MSP) without delays.
Farmer organizations also called for greater unity among all unions and urged more groups to join the protest in the coming days to strengthen the movement.
