Nearly a thousand farmers rallied in Chandigarh on Monday, marching from Sector 34 to Matka Chowk to demand urgent agricultural reforms from the Punjab Government, even as a pakka morcha was set up at Sector 34 ground. Organized by the Bharti Kisan Union (Ugrahan) and the Punjab Khet Mazdoor Union, this protest highlighted escalating frustrations within the farming community over the state government’s delayed response to critical issues affecting their livelihood.
The protest began early in the morning as farmers arrived by buses, tractor-trolleys, and personal vehicles from various parts of Punjab. The Dussehra ground in Sector 34 saw a substantial turnout, including many women, who joined the march carrying pictures of deceased farmers in their families along with strong resolve. The procession, led by BKU (Ugrahan) leader Joginder Singh Ugrahan, was supported by notable figures such as Rakesh Tikait of the Bharatiya Kisan Union and Harinder Singh Lakhowal of the Bharatiya Kisan Union (Lakhowal).
As the march proceeded to Matka Chowk — a busy roundabout in central Chandigarh, the farmers carried banners and placards advocating for their demands. Their key grievances include the implementation of a comprehensive agricultural policy, promotion of chemical-free farming practices, compensation for families of farmers who have committed suicide, and effective measures to combat the pervasive drug problem in the state.
Upon reaching Matka Chowk, the farmers presented a memorandum to Punjab’s Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Gurmeet Singh Khuddian. The Minister, who arrived at the protest site, assured the farmers that their demands would be taken seriously. Khuddian committed to reviewing the memorandum and presenting it to Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. He emphasized the government’s dedication to addressing the farmers' concerns and pledged to act as an intermediary to ensure their issues are effectively communicated and addressed.
“Punjab Government is committed to supporting its farmers, who are the backbone of our state’s economy,” Khuddian stated. “This meeting is an important step in opening dialogue between the government and the farming community. We are eager to engage with the farmers, listen to their perspectives, and work collaboratively to address their challenges.”
The march, which covered over five kilometers, was closely monitored by security personnel. Approximately 700 police officers and paramilitary forces were deployed to manage the large crowd and maintain public order. Traffic in the vicinity of Matka Chowk was rerouted, causing significant disruptions, particularly around the commercial and educational hub of Sector 34.
The protest underscored broader issues beyond immediate agricultural concerns. Farmers expressed their dissatisfaction with what they perceive as inadequate government action on pressing matters. The Punjab government, led by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), has faced criticism for its handling of various agricultural policies and environmental issues.
Farmer leaders like Rakesh Tikait called for legislation guaranteeing minimum support prices (MSP) for crops, arguing that current policies fail to provide sufficient support for the agricultural community. Tikait also highlighted concerns about water scarcity and pollution, emphasizing the need for a new agricultural policy. “Punjab government must engage with farmers and their leaders to create a policy that addresses our concerns,” Tikait asserted, adding, “There are numerous issues at play, including depleting groundwater levels and the need for effective recommendations on MSP to the Centre.”
The protest also drew attention to the ongoing drug crisis in Punjab. Many women participants voiced their frustration with the government’s failure to address this issue, which they believe has negatively impacted the youth. One protester lamented, “Punjab government promised to make the state drug-free, but the problem persists. Our children are falling prey to this crisis, and the government’s inaction is unacceptable.”
In response to the protest, the Chandigarh Administration implemented measures to ensure public safety and manage the situation. Police established barricades and deployed additional forces to prevent any untoward incidents. Despite these efforts, the protest caused significant traffic disruptions, leading several private coaching institutes in the area to suspend classes for the day.
The protest marks a significant shift in the dynamics of farmer mobilization in Punjab. For the first time since 2008, such a large gathering of farmers has been allowed to assemble in the heart of Chandigarh, reflecting a changing approach by the Chandigarh authorities. Tikait acknowledged this development positively, hinting at the possibility of future protests if their demands are not met.
As the protest concluded, the farmers boarded buses arranged by the administration and returned to the Sector-34 ground. BKU (Ugrahan) leaders announced that their programs would continue, with further actions to be decided in a meeting scheduled for September 5.
