Mohali, Sept 1: Traffic movement between Mohali and Chandigarh faced restrictions on Tuesday as thirty-two farm unions convened for a planned week-long protest along the state line. Union leaders stated that the demonstration brings together key organizations, including BKU Rajewal and Kirti Kisan Union, to press both central and state administrations on systemic agricultural reforms.
Movement leaders declared that trade policy and resource control represent major concerns for the agricultural community. Union spokespersons maintained that pending trade agreements with Western nations could expose domestic produce to aggressive foreign competition. Representatives also asserted that Punjab must retain its decisive role in managing river waters and regional power boards, calling for legislative review of existing water allocation frameworks.
Economic guarantees formed another key segment of the collective demands. Union officials declared that a complete waiver of agricultural loans is necessary to address widespread rural indebtedness affecting landowners and farm laborers alike. Organizers maintained that establishing a statutory MSP mechanism remains the most effective safeguard against market volatility for essential crops.
The charter also outlines specific welfare proposals for the rural workforce. Union representatives stated that sugarcane pricing should be set at Rs 500 per quintal with streamlined payment mechanisms across processing mills. Demonstrators further requested a monthly pension of Rs 10,000 for elderly farmers and rural artisans, alongside the withdrawal of upcoming regulatory measures affecting electricity tariffs and seed distribution.
