Farmers from various parts of India have mobilized to highlight their pressing issues. The protest march, which began on December 6, 2024, has already reached Noida and is now heading toward Delhi. Let’s understand the context, the demands, and the impact of this significant movement.
The Background of the Protest
Farmers, supported by several organizations from states like Kerala, Uttarakhand, and Tamil Nadu, have come together for symbolic demonstrations. Their main demand is a legally guaranteed Minimum Support Price (MSP) for 22 crops, beyond the current focus on wheat and rice. The protest, organized under the banner of the Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee, involves daily marches from 9 AM to 5 PM.
As farmers converge on Delhi, restrictions have been imposed on major routes, disrupting traffic and goods transport. The Delhi and Noida police have advised commuters to use metro services and provided alternative routes. The Supreme Court has called for peaceful demonstrations that avoid public inconvenience, emphasizing the need to keep critical infrastructure like the Khanouri Border unobstructed.
Farmers’ Seven Key Demands
The farmers have listed seven primary demands to address the issues affecting their livelihood:
- Legal Guarantee of Minimum Support Price (MSP):
They seek MSP for all 22 crops to ensure fair compensation for their produce. - Loan Waivers:
Complete waivers of agricultural loans for farmers and laborers to alleviate financial distress. - Pensions for Farmers and Laborers:
Regular pensions for those who work tirelessly in the fields but lack social security. - Justice for Lakhimpur Kheri Violence Victims:
Compensation and legal action related to the tragic events of 2020-21. - Reinstatement of the 2013 Land Acquisition Act:
Farmers demand the reinstatement of the provisions of the 2013 Act for fair land compensation and employment for landless farmers’ children. - Compensation for Protest Deaths:
Families of those who died during the 2020-21 protests must receive appropriate compensation. - Enhanced Land Compensation:
Farmers want improved compensation for government-acquired land, in line with the 2013 Act.
Impact on Public and Authorities’ Response
The march has caused significant traffic jams and logistical disruptions. Emergency vehicles have been prioritized, and public transport services are encouraged. Meanwhile, authorities emphasize the importance of peaceful protests. The Supreme Court has urged both the protesters and the government to engage in meaningful dialogue to resolve the issues.
The Way Forward
This protest is a crucial moment for India’s agricultural community, drawing attention to their struggles and aspirations. The farmers have been clear about their demands, which they believe are vital for their survival and dignity. As the march progresses, it remains to be seen how the government will respond.
By understanding the farmers’ concerns and their seven key demands, we can better appreciate the significance of this movement. The voice of the farming community deserves our attention and empathy.
