Sarwan Singh Pandher, a prominent farmer leader, has called upon the government and Parliament to hold a debate on the challenges faced by farmers and the actions taken by security forces during the Sambhu border protest. The appeal follows Friday’s ‘Delhi Chalo’ march, during which farmers clashed with police while demanding legal guarantees for Minimum Support Price (MSP) and other rights.
Demand for Parliamentary Action
Pandher stressed that Parliament, as the “temple of democracy,” must address the farmers’ grievances and deliberate on the conduct of security forces.
“Parliament should discuss farmers’ issues. Neither the government nor the opposition has raised concerns about the central forces’ merciless actions at the Sambhu border,” Pandher said.
Government Indifference Alleged
Criticizing the central government, Pandher claimed there has been no attempt to initiate dialogue with the farmers.
“The Central Government shows no interest in engaging with us, and there is no indication of a negotiation program. Farmers and labourers form the largest voting bloc, yet it feels as though there is no MP willing to represent our voices in Parliament,” he added.
Injuries and Future Protests
Revealing that 20 farmers were injured during Friday’s tear gas shelling, Pandher announced plans for further action if discussions with the government do not materialize.
“If the government does not engage in talks, a ‘Jattha’ of 101 farmers will march towards Delhi on December 8 at 12 noon,” Pandher warned.
Criticism of Governments and Opposition
Pandher expressed dissatisfaction with both the central NDA government and the INDIA bloc-led state governments, accusing them of failing to address farmers’ concerns effectively.
“Neither the Modi government nor the INDIA government in the states has resolved farmers’ issues. In Punjab, too, the AAP government has disappointed the people,” he said.
He also criticized the opposition for what he called opportunistic behavior, stating that their support for farmers only surfaces when the issue garners media attention.
Farmers’ Plight and Demands
Highlighting the dire conditions faced by farmers and labourers, Pandher reiterated the demand for a fair price for crops.
“Farmers only seek fair compensation for their produce. While corporate sectors freely determine prices for their goods, farmers are denied this right,” he emphasized.
The ongoing protest at the Sambhu border underscores farmers’ broader demands for compensation, legal guarantees for MSP, and structural reforms to ensure equitable treatment within the agricultural sector.