Farmers Protest: Tractors to the Capital: Farmers March on Delhi
New Delhi: Defying roadblocks and an inconclusive meeting with Union ministers, thousands of farmers from Punjab have begun their much-anticipated “Delhi Chalo” march today, February 13th. Despite no resolution on their core demand of a minimum support price (MSP) for crops, the protestors remain firm in their resolve to reach the national capital and raise their voices.
Yesterday’s five-hour meeting between farmer leaders and Union ministers, including Piyush Goyal and Arjun Munda, failed to deliver any concrete breakthrough. While some progress was reportedly made on secondary issues, the central demand of a legal guarantee for MSP remained unaddressed. This lack of progress has fueled the farmers’ determination to take their protest to Delhi.
Thousands On The Move:
Early reports suggest large contingents of farmers, on tractors and other vehicles, have left Punjab and are heading towards Delhi. The Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM), an umbrella body of protesting farmers’ unions, has claimed participation from over 200 individual unions. Security has been tightened at state borders, with authorities anticipating large gatherings and potential disruptions.
Key Demands Unsolved:
The “Delhi Chalo” march highlights the ongoing discontent among farmers over several issues, including the three contentious farm laws repealed in November 2021. While the repeal was a victory, farmers remain concerned about the lack of alternative support mechanisms and the continued absence of a statutory MSP guarantee.
What Lies Ahead:
With farmers determined to reach Delhi and the government yet to offer a satisfactory solution, the coming days could see heightened tensions. The success of the march and the impact on ongoing negotiations remain uncertain. This development comes amid broader concerns about the plight of Indian farmers and the challenges they face in securing fair prices for their produce.
