Farmers Stage Nationwide Rail Roko Protest, Disrupting Services in Punjab and Haryana
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- March 11, 2024
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Farmers Stage Nationwide Rail Roko Protest, Disrupting Services in Punjab and Haryana
On Sunday, farmers in Punjab and Haryana intensified their fight for better rights by participating in a nationwide “rail roko” protest organized by the Samyukt Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha. This action aimed to pressure the central government to address their core demands, including a legal guarantee for Minimum Support Price (MSP) and debt relief.
The protest significantly impacted train operations in the region. Farmers squatted on railway tracks at numerous locations across Punjab and Haryana, causing complete stoppages for over four hours at several stations. Passengers faced significant inconvenience, forced to wait at stations or scramble to find alternative means of transport.
In Haryana, authorities detained several protestors at Dabwali and Ellenabad, attempting to curb the movement. This action came after the farmers’ “Dilli Chalo” march, planned to reach the national capital, was halted at the state borders.
The impact of the “rail roko” protest extended beyond Punjab and Haryana. The disruption affected train schedules in various states, including Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar. While the farmer unions had called for a nationwide stoppage, participation beyond the initial two states remained limited.
Despite the limited national participation and government crackdowns in some areas, farmer unions claimed their agitation gained momentum. Leaders asserted the protest’s success, highlighting the cancellation of numerous trains across the mentioned states.
This event highlights the ongoing struggle of Indian farmers for better economic security and policy changes. The disruption caused by the protest reflects the farmers’ determination to have their voices heard and their demands met. As the situation unfolds, it will be crucial to monitor the government’s response and the potential for further escalation of farmer protests.
