Punjab Bandh on December 30: Farmers to Halt Train, Bus Services and Close Institutions

Chandigarh (The Uttam Hindu): Farmers in Punjab have announced a statewide bandh (shutdown) on December 30, 2024, as part of their continued protest against the central government's policies. This decision was made during a meeting of farmer leaders, including representatives from the Samyukt Kisan Morcha (non-political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha. The bandh is aimed at pressuring the government to address several key demands, most notably the legal guarantee of the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for crops.

The announcement follows a series of protests, including the recent "rail roko" (stop the trains) movement, where farmers blocked train services at more than 50 locations across Punjab for three hours. This action was intended to highlight their grievances and urge the government to implement the Swaminathan Commission's recommendations on crop pricing, as well as to ensure that agriculture is excluded from World Trade Organization regulations.

On the day of the bandh, December 30, all public and private institutions, along with bus and train services, are expected to remain closed, though emergency services will continue to operate. Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher emphasized the importance of making the bandh a success, drawing comparisons to the impact of previous protests. In addition to their demand for MSP, farmers are also calling for pensions for agricultural workers and no increase in electricity rates. The protests have gained momentum as farmers unite against what they perceive as the central government's disregard for their rights and livelihoods. This upcoming bandh is viewed as a pivotal moment in their ongoing fight for fair agricultural policies in