New Delhi: Thousands of farmers have reignited their “Delhi Chalo” march, heading toward the national capital to press for their demands, including better crop prices, rollback of certain policies, and support for agricultural reforms. The movement marks a renewed wave of agitation against the central government, echoing the massive farmer protests of recent years.
Key Issues and Demands
Farmers are demanding:
- A legal guarantee for Minimum Support Price (MSP) for crops.
- Immediate rollback of policies perceived to be detrimental to their livelihoods.
- Waiver of farm loans and additional financial relief for families of farmers who have died by suicide.
- Enhanced subsidies on essential agricultural inputs like fertilizers and seeds.
March Details
The march, organized by various farmer unions and coordinated under the banner of the Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM), is expected to draw thousands from neighboring states such as Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan.
Protesters are advancing on foot, carrying banners and raising slogans, determined to reach Delhi despite heightened security measures.
Heavy Security Deployment
Authorities have deployed a robust security apparatus to monitor and manage the influx of protesters. Barricades, water cannons, and riot control units have been stationed along major entry points into the capital to prevent disruptions to public order.
Traffic diversions have been announced in Delhi and its bordering areas, causing inconvenience to commuters. Authorities are urging citizens to plan their travel accordingly.
Government’s Stance
The government has reiterated its commitment to dialogue, stating that discussions can take place to address the grievances. However, no official invitation for talks has been extended yet, raising tensions between the two sides.
Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar recently emphasized that the government is already providing substantial support to farmers and remains open to resolving issues through constructive dialogue.
Voices from the Ground
Farmers participating in the march expressed their frustrations:
- “We cannot survive if the government continues to ignore our demands. The MSP is our lifeline,” said a farmer from Haryana.
- “This is not just a fight for us but for the future of agriculture in India,” another protester from Punjab remarked.
A Legacy of Resistance
The farmers’ movement has gained global attention over the years, symbolizing resilience and unity among agricultural workers. The current march underscores the enduring discontent among the farming community and their readiness to stand against policies they perceive as unjust.
Citizen News Daily will continue to bring updates on the march and its developments as they unfold.
