North News
Chandigarh, December 30
Farmers across Punjab staged a massive protest on Monday, blocking roads at over 200 locations as part of a state-wide bandh called by the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha. The bandh led to severe disruptions in rail services, with 163 trains canceled, 19 short-terminated, 15 delayed, 15 short-originated, and nine halted mid-route. The agitation was triggered by the Centre’s alleged failure to address the demands of protesting farmers. The farmers are demanding a legal guarantee for all 23 crops. The agitation has gained momentum as farmers’ leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal has been on a hunger strike for over a month in support of their demands.
According to media reports, the roadblocks caused significant inconvenience to commuters, with many stranded and unable to reach their destinations. Key routes, including the Airport Road at IISER Chowk in Mohali, Kurali Road Toll Plaza, Ambala-Delhi Highway Toll Plaza near Lalru, and the Kharar-Morinda Highway, were blocked. Protests were also reported in Amritsar, Bathinda, Mansa and other major locations.
However, farmers’ leaders assured that students appearing for exams, ambulances, and emergency services were allowed to pass without hindrance. Speaking to the media, Samyukta Kisan Morcha chief Sarwan Singh Pandher urged the Punjab government not to misuse its power against farmers but to support them in their fight. He emphasized that the protest had garnered widespread support from the public.
