Mohali/Chandigarh, May 15
The Chandigarh police used tear gas and water cannons on Friday to stop hundreds of Punjab farmers marching towards Lok Bhavan during a protest over agricultural and water-related demands. The confrontation took place near the Mohali border after members of the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM) attempted to move past barricades set up by security forces. Several protesters were detained during the clashes, although farmer leaders later said they were released following pressure from demonstrators and union representatives.
The farmers had gathered earlier at Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nature Park in Mohali’s Phase 8 area before beginning their march towards Chandigarh. Protesters raised slogans against both the Punjab government and the central government, accusing authorities of neglecting farmers’ concerns.
The demonstrators were demanding a legal guarantee for Minimum Support Price (MSP), greater representation in the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB), protection of Punjab’s river water rights, and opposition to the proposed Electricity Amendment Bill 2025. They also called for higher agricultural loan limits and improved irrigation and drinking water facilities in rural areas.
Tensions escalated when police attempted to stop the march towards the Governor’s residence, where farmers planned to submit a memorandum outlining their demands. Protesters and security personnel clashed after police carried out baton charges to block their movement.
Speaking at the protest, Mukant Singh of the All India Kisan Sabha said the agitation reflected wider concerns affecting Punjab’s farming community.
“We demand proper irrigation facilities in Punjab, better drinking water arrangements in villages, and a legal guarantee for MSP on crops,” he told supporters.
By evening, many protesters had begun leaving the area, although farmer leaders said the agitation would continue. They announced that the next strategy meeting would take place on 21 May at Kisan Bhawan.
