In a repeat of past tensions, Indian police resorted to tear gas against farmers marching towards New Delhi on Friday. The farmers, demanding guaranteed crop prices, were halted near Shambhu, situated at the Punjab-Haryana border.
The conflict unfolded as farmers rallied for increased state support, reminiscent of the protests from three years ago. This time, however, the authorities had sealed multiple entry points into New Delhi with barricades and barbed wire, aiming to prevent any disruption in the capital.
The farmers’ primary demand is for legally guaranteed minimum purchase prices for a broader range of crops beyond just rice and wheat. Currently, the government’s support is limited, leaving farmers seeking a floor price for over 20 essential crops to safeguard their livelihoods.
The protest, which began in Haryana and Punjab, saw farmers pressing for the government to fulfill its promise to double their income. They argue that the increasing costs of cultivation starkly contrast with stagnant income levels, exacerbating their financial struggles.
Moreover, many farmers are burdened by loans and are urging the government to provide relief by waiving these debts. The protesters have also expressed their discontent over the unmet government promise to ensure support prices for certain farm produce, a pledge made following the withdrawal of controversial agricultural laws in 2021.
Despite previous assurances, the farmers accuse the government of failing to deliver on its promises after multiple unfruitful meetings. Their frustration has led them to plan protests in New Delhi, coinciding with the parliamentary session.
As tensions mount, both the government and farmers remain at an impasse. The calls for action underscore the urgent need for a resolution that addresses the farmers’ demands while balancing the broader economic implications for the country.
Source: Apnews
