Key Points:
- Punjab farmers announce a state-wide bandh on December 30, supported by multiple unions and groups.
- Essential services such as medical care and emergency facilities will remain unaffected.
- Farmer leader Dallewal enters the 29th day of his hunger strike, urging nationwide unity for farmers’ demands.
- Core demand: A legal guarantee for the Minimum Support Price (MSP) on crops.
New Delhi: The farming community in Punjab has intensified its agitation by declaring a Punjab bandh on December 30 to advocate for their demands. The bandh, which will run from 7 AM to 4 PM, aims to halt operations in both government and private offices, disrupt rail movement, and restrict road traffic across the state. However, the organizers have ensured that public convenience remains a priority.
Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher from the Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee-Punjab emphasized that the bandh is designed to minimize inconvenience to the public. “Medical services and other emergency facilities will continue as usual during the bandh. Passengers traveling to airports or attending wedding ceremonies will not face any obstruction. Additionally, candidates appearing for exams will receive full support to reach their examination centers,” said Pandher.
Unified Support Across Groups
The bandh has garnered widespread support from various farmer unions and groups. The protest highlights key demands such as a legal guarantee for Minimum Support Price (MSP) on crops, which has been a long-standing issue for farmers across India.
Dallewal’s Hunger Strike Reaches Critical Stage
Meanwhile, farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal continues his 29-day hunger strike at the Khanauri border. Despite his deteriorating health, Dallewal delivered a stirring address, emphasizing the need for national unity to achieve the farmers’ goals.
“Winning this battle requires collective action from across the country,” Dallewal declared from a specially arranged platform. Accompanied by fellow leader Abhimanyu Kohad, Dallewal reassured supporters of his determination, stating, “I am fine, and we must persevere to succeed.”
The hunger strike has drawn significant attention, with Dallewal extending heartfelt gratitude to those who have supported the movement. His fragile yet resolute stance has become a symbol of the farmers’ unwavering commitment to their cause.
Impact of the Bandh
The December 30 bandh is expected to affect routine operations in Punjab significantly:
- Government and private offices will remain closed.
- Rail and road transport will be halted.
- Essential services such as hospitals and emergency services will operate uninterrupted.
This collective action underscores the farmers’ resolve to push for policy changes, including the much-debated MSP guarantee.
Unity is the Call of the Hour
The farmers’ movement in Punjab is part of a broader struggle impacting agrarian communities across India. The protest leaders believe that national unity and consistent pressure on the government are essential to bring about meaningful change.
The bandh serves as a reminder of the farmers’ resilience and their call for justice in securing their livelihoods.
