THE NEWS FREEDOM
AMBALA, CHANDIGARH AND NEW DELHI, FEBRUARY 14
Tensions simmered along the Haryana-Punjab border on Wednesday as police clashed with farmers attempting to march on Delhi in a renewed “Delhi Chalo” protest. Ten farmers were reportedly injured when tear gas was used to disperse the crowds at the Shambhu border. Despite the unrest, both sides have agreed to resume talks, offering a glimmer of hope for a peaceful resolution.
Sources have disclosed that the escalation of the situation prompted senior Union ministers, including Rajnath Singh and Arjun Munda, to engage in discussions on Wednesday regarding the ongoing farmers’ protests and potential strategies to tackle the issues at hand.
Meeting Scheduled for February 15th
Union ministers Arjun Munda, Piyush Goyal, and Nityanand Rai are scheduled to meet with farmer representatives in Chandigarh on February 15th to discuss their demands, which include a guaranteed Minimum Support Price (MSP) for 23 crops, debt relief, and the withdrawal of cases filed during the 2020-21 farmers’ agitation.
Government urges dialogue
Agriculture Minister, Arjun Munda, appealed to farmers in the morning, urging them to pursue dialogue as a means to resolve the ongoing issues. Speaking to the media, Munda sought understanding from farmer unions, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing dialogue over disruptive actions. He cautioned against hastily made decisions that could attract future criticism, stressing the necessity for solutions that do not inconvenience the public.
Addressing concerns surrounding the farmer protests, Munda stated, “We need to discuss this comprehensively, keeping all aspects in mind.” He urged the unions to maintain a conducive atmosphere for dialogue while reaffirming the government’s commitment to farmers’ welfare and its readiness to engage in constructive talks. However, he underscored the significance of ensuring normalcy for citizens, noting that disrupting daily life hampers the process of finding solutions.
Rail Roko announced in Punjab
In a show of solidarity, farmer unions BKU Ugrahan and BKU Dakaunda (Dhaner faction) have announced a four-hour rail roko in Punjab on Thursday, adding to the existing tension. Sarwan Singh Pandher, General Secretary of the Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee, clarified that farmers have no intention of breaking barricades or engaging in confrontations. He underscored their democratic right to protest peacefully and reiterated their demands. Pandher announced that a meeting between Union ministers and farmer representatives is scheduled for February 15 in Chandigarh. The “Delhi Chalo” protest, spearheaded by the Samyukt Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, aims to address their demands.
Medical Aid Provided to Injured
Punjab Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh confirmed the state government’s commitment to cover all medical expenses for those injured during the protests. He condemned the use of force by Haryana authorities and labeled their actions unconstitutional.
Speaker Calls for Open Dialogue
Punjab Assembly Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan expressed concern about the use of force and urged authorities to engage in constructive discussions to address the farmers’ legitimate concerns.
Internet Services Remain Suspended
Mobile internet services remain suspended in certain areas of Punjab until February 16th as per directives from the Ministry of Home Affairs.