On February 16, labourers and farmers are set to observe a targeted industrial strike called Bharat Bandh, organized by the non-political farmers’ group, Samyukta Kisan Morcha. The demonstration is scheduled to occur from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the specified day.
Reports suggest that farmers are planning nationwide roadblocks, known as chakka jams, between 12 and 4 PM, affecting major roadways in Punjab for a four-hour duration. This could lead to the closure of various government and private offices, affecting services like MNREGA rural works, transportation, agricultural activities, and rural industrial and service sectors.
However, essential services such as ambulance and hospitals will continue to operate without disruption. The Samyukta Kisan Morcha has presented a list of demands to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, including the implementation of a Minimum Support Price based on the Swaminathan formula, legal assurances regarding procurement, debt relief, a halt to power rate hikes, and a ban on smart meter installations. The farmers are also advocating for comprehensive crop insurance, free power supply of up to 300 units for both home and agricultural purposes, and a monthly pension increase of Rs 10,000. The Bharat Bandh is expected to draw attention to these grievances and push for government action on the outlined demands.
