8 April
Sandeep Dhand Ludhiana
In a show of protest against the central government, farmers and laborers, led by various unions, orchestrated the blowing up of effigies in Ludhiana on April 7. The effigies symbolized their frustration with the government’s failure to address their longstanding grievances. Among the demands reiterated by leaders were the assurance of Minimum Support Price (MSP) for 23 crops, implementation of the Swaminathan Commission’s recommendation of C2+50% MSP, and the waiver of loans for farmers and laborers.
The agitation, which took place in Hambaran village near Ludhiana, underscored the continued dissatisfaction of farmers despite numerous prior meetings with the government yielding no tangible results. Leaders emphasized that until their demands are met, the protests will persist. Furthermore, they condemned the arrest of farmers in Tamil Nadu and demanded their immediate release.
The effigy-burning ceremony served as a stark reminder of the deep-seated discontent prevailing among farmers and laborers regarding the government’s agricultural policies. Despite assurances and promises, the core issues facing the agricultural community remain unaddressed, fueling further agitation.
Authorities have yet to respond to the latest demonstration, but the message from the farmers and laborers is clear: they will continue their struggle until their demands are acknowledged and acted upon. As the protests persist, there is growing anticipation for meaningful dialogue and concrete steps to alleviate the plight of those toiling in the agricultural sector.