The North News
Chandigarh, March 24
The Punjab Police have announced the release of more 450 farmers detained during recent protests, as demonstrations intensify across the state. Inspector General Sukhchain Singh Gill confirmed that 800 farmers have already been freed, with an additional 450 set to be released today. The state government has also decided to release elderly farmers over 60, women, and those with medical conditions.
The protests, led by farmer organisations, have gained momentum following the arrests of key leaders, including Jagjit Singh Dallewal and Sarwan Singh Pandher. The Samyukt Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha have called for nationwide demonstrations.
The Punjab Police have taken a firm stance on reports of stolen belongings from detained farmers. Three FIRs have been registered, and SP Jasbir Singh has been appointed as the nodal officer to handle grievances. Farmers can report thefts by contacting 9071300002, the IG Gill further said.
The protests erupted on March 19 after the seventh round of talks between farmer leaders and the central government failed to reach a consensus. Union Ministers Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Piyush Goyal, and Pralhad Joshi met with farmer representatives, alongside Punjab Ministers Lal Chand Kataruchak and Gurmeet Singh Khudian. Discussions focused on key demands, including a legal guarantee for Minimum Support Price (MSP), loan waivers, pensions for farmers and agricultural workers, halting electricity tariff hikes, and withdrawing cases against protesters.
Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan had described the talks as “constructive” and announced that another round of negotiations is scheduled for 4 May. Despite government assurances, farmer unions have pledged to continue their agitation, demanding justice for victims of the 2021 Lakhimpur Kheri violence and compensation for families of those who died during the 2020-21 protests.
