Protests erupt at 33 locations in Punjab over paddy lifting issue

Chandigarh (The Uttam Hindu): Bharatiya Kisan Union Ekta Ugrahan, which has been actively protesting over issues related to paddy lifting and DAP shortages, has shifted its strategy. The union has decided to conclude its 16-day sit-in outside the residences of Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLAs, ministers, and BJP leaders. Instead, the union will now hold permanent sit-ins outside the homes of AAP and BJP candidates contesting in four assembly seats: Barnala, Gidderbaha, Chabbewal, and Dera Baba Nanak. Union chief Joginder Singh Ugrahan announced this change.

He mentioned that significant meetings will take place at the district level on November 3, and sit-ins are scheduled to commence on November 4. However, 25 toll plazas will continue to remain free of charges. When asked if the candidates would be surrounded and questioned, he indicated that this could be a possibility. Ugrahan expressed dissatisfaction with the paddy lifting process and the DAP shortage in the state’s mandis, attributing these issues to both the Central and Punjab state governments. He clarified that the union is not content with the current status of paddy lifting, prompting the change in their protest strategy.

The ongoing struggle will now span 33 locations. While the fronts outside the homes of AAP and BJP leaders will be dismantled, farmer unions are urged to close 20 to 22 toll plazas to increase pressure on the government. Farmers previously protesting outside leaders’ homes will now monitor local mandis for any issues. If problems arise, they plan to take immediate action, including surrounding officials if necessary. The United Kisan Morcha has emphasized its commitment to a non-political struggle and will continue to take to the roads if necessary. Previously, the Morcha had blocked highways, leading to meetings with government officials, which resulted in farmers vacating the roads.