THE NEWS FREEDOM
CHANDIGARH, FEBRUARY 16
Despite assurances from both government and farmer leaders to uphold peace, police resorted to tear gas once more on Friday to scatter farmers gathered at the Shambhu border. The farmers attempted to advance past barricades. A video shared on social media platforms by news agencies depicts a considerable number of farmers fleeing for safety at the Shambhu border following the use of tear gas by the police. Throughout the agitation, which began three days ago, numerous farmers and even journalists have sustained injuries so far.
The third round of talks between Union ministers and farmer leaders, held on Thursday in Chandigarh, did not reach a final resolution. However, both sides expressed positive sentiments and agreed to reconvene on Sunday for further discussions.
Talking to the media at around 1.30 am today, all attending parties including Union ministers, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, and farmer representatives, characterized the talks as constructive and positive. While no concrete agreements were reached, both sides acknowledged the need for further deliberation on critical issues. These include the long-standing demands for a guaranteed Minimum Support Price (MSP) law for 23 crops, debt relief for farmers, and the withdrawal of cases filed during the 2020-21 farmers’ agitation.
Speaking to the media, Union Minister Arjun Munda said, “Today, we had a very constructive discussion between the government and the farmers’ unions. Addressing the key concerns raised by the farmers’ union, we have agreed to schedule the next meeting for Sunday at 6 pm. We are committed to finding a peaceful solution to all issues”. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann disclosed that the Union ministers assured to uphold peace, with assurances from the Haryana government, while farmer leaders had already implored the farming community to maintain calm. Bhagwant Mann remarked that extensive deliberations occurred today between the farmers’ union and the central government, covering a wide array of topics in thorough detail. A positive dialogue ensued during the discussions. However, the suspension of internet services in border areas has posed challenges for students amidst ongoing examinations. Mann announced that the next meeting is scheduled for Sunday.
Convenor of the non-political Samyukt Kisan Morcha, Jagjit Singh Dallewal, said that they engaged in a comprehensive discussion with the three Union ministers. He noted that the government acknowledged the necessity for further deliberation on the demands presented. Dallewal emphasized the positive nature of the discussion and revealed that the next round of talks is scheduled for Sunday. Additionally, he raised concerns about the blocking of social media platforms belonging to farmer leaders.
“During the meeting, we demanded a guaranteed law on Minimum Support Price (MSP) for 23 crops, debt relief, and the withdrawal of cases filed during the 2020-21 farmers’ agitation,” he added.