Amritsar (Dawarka Nath Rana): Punjab Farmers Protest outside the Punjab Mandi Board headquarters. They opposed the freezing of bank accounts linked to a wheat procurement issue. The Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee Punjab led the protest. Leaders Sarwan Singh Pandher and Ranjit Singh Kaler Bala headed the action.
Farmers said officials froze several accounts during a procurement investigation. They claimed innocent farmers also got affected. As a result, they demanded immediate relief from the authorities.
Farmers Demand Release of Frozen Accounts
Farmers argued that they had no role in the alleged scam. Therefore, they demanded immediate de-freezing of their bank accounts. They also asked officials to punish only the guilty commission agents.
They further demanded faster payments for crop procurement. In addition, they called for settlement within 24 hours of purchase. Farmers said delays create financial pressure on them.
Irregularities in Mandi System Highlighted
Farmers raised several concerns about mandi operations. They said officials often issue “kachhi parchi” instead of proper receipts. These slips often miss key details like firm name and registration number.
They demanded proper J-Forms during procurement. They also asked for valid receipts with full transaction details. Farmers said this step will improve transparency.
Demand for Better Infrastructure and Transparency
Farmers urged the government to upgrade mandi infrastructure. They demanded permanent mandis instead of temporary setups. They also asked for sheds, seating, and drinking water facilities.
Farmers called for faster lifting of crops after procurement. In addition, they demanded computerized weighing systems in all mandis. They also asked for certified moisture meters to check grain quality.
Government Response on Frozen Accounts
Mandi Board officials responded to the protest. The District Marketing Officer (DMO), Amritsar, assured action. He said authorities will restore most frozen accounts.
Officials confirmed that five out of seven accounts already got approval for restoration. They said the remaining two accounts will be restored within a week.
Farmers Raise Fertilizer Shortage Issue
Farmers also raised concerns about fertilizer shortages. They said the problem affects paddy cultivation across Punjab. They blamed the agriculture department for poor management.
Protesters warned of another protest on June 30. This protest will take place in Amritsar and Gurdaspur. Farmers said they will continue protests if issues remain unresolved.
Conclusion
The Punjab Farmers Protest highlights rising anger among Punjab farmers. They face issues related to procurement, payments, and mandi management. Officials have offered partial relief on frozen accounts. However, farmer unions continue to demand full resolution of all issues.
Key Points of the news:
- Punjab farmers protested outside the Mandi Board office over frozen bank accounts linked to procurement issues.
- They demanded immediate de-freezing of accounts of innocent farmers affected by alleged scams.
- Farmers also raised concerns over delayed payments, mandi irregularities, and lack of transparency.
- The union demanded reforms in crop procurement, weighing systems, and mandi facilities.
- Officials assured partial resolution and promised action on remaining grievances within a week.
