Farmers in Punjab have been protesting since February 13, demanding a law guaranteeing the purchase of all crops at Minimum Support Price, a complete debt waiver, and justice for victims of violence. The farmers also demanded the withdrawal from the WTO and suspension of free trade agreements. On Monday, they called for a shutdown in support of a leader who has been on a hunger strike for over a month. The government has provided compensation to some victims' families, but union members claim many are still waiting for support.
Punjab Bandh: Farmers' Protest Intensifies
Background:
Punjab, India's agricultural heartland, has been gripped by a prolonged farmers' protest since February 13, 2021. Led by various farmer unions, the protesters are demanding several key reforms and measures to address their grievances.
Key Demands:
Shutdown and Hunger Strike:
On Monday, June 28, farmers called for a shutdown in support of Balbir Singh Rajewal, a leader of a farmer union who has been on a hunger strike for over a month. The shutdown was largely peaceful, but some incidents of violence were reported.
Government Response:
The government has provided compensation to some victims' families, but farmer unions claim many are still waiting for support. The government has also engaged in negotiations with the farmers, but no concrete resolution has been reached yet.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers:
1. What is the main reason for the farmers' protest? Answer: The farmers' protest is driven by demands for MSP, debt waiver, justice for victims of violence, and withdrawal from the WTO.
2. How long has the protest been going on? Answer: The protest has been ongoing since February 13, 2021.
3. What impact has the protest had on Punjab? Answer: The protest has led to road blockades, supply disruptions, and a decline in commerce.
4. Has the government addressed any of the farmers' demands? Answer: The government has provided compensation to some victims' families but has not met the other demands.
5. What is the outlook for the protest? Answer: The protest is ongoing, and its resolution remains uncertain. The government and farmers' unions are engaged in negotiations, but no concrete agreement has been reached.
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