Amidst the ongoing talks between farmers and the government regarding their demands, the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM) has reportedly announced a large-scale black flag protest against NDA MPs, MLAs, and ministers nationwide. Reports indicate that in a bid to exert pressure on the ruling coalition at the Centre, farmer leaders have scheduled a black flag demonstration against the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) leaders on February 21 throughout India.
Punjab Protests Target BJP Leaders
Likewise, the SKM in Punjab has announced a protest outside the homes of BJP MPs, MLAs, ministers, and district presidents for a duration of three days, beginning at 10 am on February 20 and concluding at 5 pm on February 22.
General Body Meeting in Delhi:
The Samyukt Kisan Morcha has scheduled its general body meeting for February 21 in New Delhi to discuss and decide on the future strategy for the farmers’ agitation. Farmers in Punjab, despite their calls to march towards Delhi, have been stopped at the Punjab and Haryana border by authorities. Talks between the government and farmer representatives have not resulted in any breakthrough.
Also Read: Farmers Protest Enters 5th Day; BKU Plans Dharna Outside BJP Leaders Residence
The ‘Delhi Chalo’ protest is a reaction to what the farmers’ union perceives as the government’s inability to fulfill agreements reached with the SKM on December 9, 2021.
The demands put forth by the farmers include securing a legal guarantee of Minimum Support Price (MSP) for all crops with assured procurement, comprehensive loan waivers, and opposition to the privatization of electricity, among others.
Additionally, the SKM has urged central trade unions and various mass organizations to express solidarity and condemn what they perceive as the Modi government’s “anti-farmer, anti-democratic, repressive, and dictatorial stance.”
Also Read: Farmers Protest: People Face Hardship, Heavy Traffic Jam At Borders Due To ‘Dilli Chalo’