Farmers Reject Government’s MSP Proposal, Vow to Continue ‘Delhi Chalo’ March

The ongoing farmers’ agitation in India took a contentious turn as the protesting farmers rejected the government’s proposal to procure pulses, maize, and cotton at Minimum Support Prices (MSP). After failed talks with the Centre, farmer leaders announced their decision to persist with the ‘Delhi Chalo’ march on February 21. Sarwan Singh Pandher, a prominent farmer leader, expressed deep dissatisfaction, asserting that the government had made its intentions clear not to allow them entry into Delhi.

Pandher compared the situation in Haryana to that of Kashmir, condemning the unprecedented measures taken by the police to stall the march. He emphasized that the government’s proposal aimed to divert and dilute their core demand for MSP, and the farmers stood firm, insisting on the recommendations outlined in the Swaminathan Commission report.

Despite the rejection of the government’s proposal, the farmers reiterated their commitment to a peaceful march towards Delhi on February 21. Pandher warned that the government would bear responsibility for any consequences arising from their decision. The farmers’ primary demand revolves around legislation guaranteeing MSP for all crops, a point of contention with the government, which argues that MSP for all crops would strain the national exchequer. The standoff reflects the intensification of the farmers’ agitation and raises concerns about the government’s response to the ongoing protests.