Farmers’ Protest Gains Momentum After Tragic Death, “Black Friday” Announced
The recent tragic death of a 21-year-old farmer, Shubhkaran Singh, in clashes with security forces at the Punjab-Haryana border, has reignited the farmers’ protest in India. The Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM), which had been relatively quiet, declared a ‘Black Friday’ to mourn the loss and intensify their agitation. BKU leader Rakesh Tikait announced plans for a tractor march on highways towards Delhi, symbolizing a renewed determination.
The Punjab Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee criticized the Punjab government for not filing an FIR related to Shubhkaran Singh’s death, heightening tensions. The SKM demanded action against Haryana’s chief minister and home minister, holding them accountable for the farmer’s death.
The SKM’s call for intensified protests includes a “Jan Aakrosh” rally, a nationwide tractor rally on February 26, and a Mahapanchayat at Delhi’s Ramlila Ground on March 14. Tikait emphasized that farmers would take tractors to the highway as part of their one-day program, signaling potential disruptions.
Amidst these developments, Haryana Police issued warnings about property seizure and bank account attachment for protestors causing damage. The farmers, camped at Khanauri and Shambhu borders, continue to demand legal guarantees for minimum support prices and debt waivers.
The Congress party urged a special session of Parliament to address farmers’ issues, while Union Ministers expressed the government’s commitment to dialogue and working for farmers’ interests. The situation remains tense, with the farmers determined to escalate their protests in response to the tragic incident.
