Pandher condemned the actions of the police, accusing them of using excessive force against peaceful protesters.
Farmers Tractor March at Shambhu Border Latest News Today: The ongoing farmers' protest escalated as thousands of tractors made their way toward the Shambhu border, located between Punjab and Haryana. The farmers, who are continuing their agitation over various demands, are determined to press their cause despite facing increasing opposition from the authorities.
The intensity of the protest has surged following violent clashes between farmers and police forces, which left 17 farmers injured. These incidents have only strengthened the resolve of the protesters, with a tractor march scheduled for December 16 and a 'Rail Roko' (train blockade) planned for December 18.
Haryana's Health Minister Anil Vij has appealed to the farmers to reconsider their tactics, particularly their plan to block trains. In a public statement, Vij emphasized that protests should be conducted in a manner that doesn't disrupt public life. "Every organization can hold a protest with proper permission from the Administration," Vij said. "However, blocking trains will cause inconvenience to many people. Farmers should find alternative methods to express their grievances."
The announcement of the tractor march was made by farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher, who confirmed that the march will take place outside Punjab on December 16. Following that, a large-scale rail blockade is planned in Punjab on December 18. Pandher's statement came after a group of 101 farmers was blocked by the police while attempting to march toward the Shambhu border.
Pandher condemned the actions of the police, accusing them of using excessive force against peaceful protesters. "The Indian government, the fifth-largest economy in the world, used force against 101 farmers. Chemical water was fired from cannons, bombs were hurled, and tear gas shells were launched. Seventeen farmers were injured, and many are in serious condition, yet they are not being provided proper medical treatment. We urge the Punjab government to ensure adequate medical care for the injured," he said.
Pandher also reiterated the farmers' commitment to continue their protests, with the rail blockade scheduled for December 18 from 12 to 3 pm. He called on the people of Punjab, especially those living near railway tracks, to participate in the blockade.
On the political front, Pandher criticized the opposition, particularly Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, accusing him of failing to adequately represent the concerns of farmers in Parliament. He urged all Punjabis to support the protests in large numbers, highlighting the importance of the upcoming actions.
Despite the challenges posed by authorities, the farmers remain steadfast in their demands, which include securing Minimum Support Price (MSP) guarantees and opposing the corporate takeover of agricultural markets. The protests show no signs of abating as farmers continue to fight for their rights.
