Sirsa farmers to join Khanauri protest

During a meeting of the Bharatiya Kisan Ekta (BKE) held under the leadership of Lakhwinder Singh Aulakh on Saturday, farmers condemned the recent lathi-charge on farmers in Bathinda by the AAP’s Bhagwant Mann government.

The ongoing farmer protest, which has entered its 286th day, was the primary topic of discussion during the meeting. Farm leaders expressed frustration over the alleged lack of dialogue with the government since February 18.

Farmers have been protesting at Shambhu, Khanauri, and Ratanpura borders, demanding the implementation of promises made by the Central Government.

In a decisive move, the Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) announced that senior farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal would begin an indefinite hunger strike from November 26.

It was announced that if Dallewal loses his life due to the government's indifference, his body will remain at the Khanauri border, and the next leader, Sukhjeet Singh Hardojhande, will take over the hunger strike. This cycle will continue until the farmers' demands are met.

Aulakh said, to strengthen the movement, the BKE team will march from Jhorar Rohi village at 9 am on November 26 to join the Khanauri protest. Aulakh urged farmers to support Dallewal, emphasising that he was risking his life for their land and children's future.

Aulakh also highlighted grievances, including farmers being forced to buy unnecessary products like nano fertilisers and sulfur with urea. He warned sellers and cooperative societies against such practices, threatening legal action. They also criticised the Agriculture Department for ignoring these issues, despite repeated complaints.