In a stern move against farmers protesting the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for crops, the Indian government has initiated the seizure of property and bank accounts belonging to demonstrators, escalating tensions in an already volatile situation. The government’s actions come as part of efforts to quell the ongoing protests, primarily concentrated on the borders of Punjab and Haryana.
Protests have persisted for several days, marked by clashes and incidents of violence. The government’s use of tear gas shells from drones further intensified the confrontations, leading to the tragic death of a young farmer at the Khanauri border. In response, the farmers declared a two-day hiatus in their protests, which is currently underway.
While the protests are momentarily paused, reports suggest that farmers are actively planning a march towards Delhi, equipped with JCBs and other necessary arrangements. The death of a farmer at the Khanauri border has fueled anger and determination among the protestors.
The government, in an attempt to address the farmers’ concerns, announced a hike in the sugarcane procurement price on Wednesday night. Additionally, Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed a special message to the farmers on Thursday, signaling an effort to ease tensions.
Key Developments:
- Asset Seizures: Government takes drastic measures, seizing property and bank accounts of protesting farmers.
- Protracted Protests: Demonstrations persist on the borders of Punjab and Haryana, marked by clashes and incidents of violence.
- Tragic Incident: A young farmer loses his life at the Khanauri border, prompting a two-day break in protests.
- March Towards Delhi: Farmers plan an organized march towards the capital, bringing essential equipment with them.
- Government Measures: Increase in sugarcane procurement price and a special message from PM Modi aim to pacify farmers.
The government’s actions have not been without criticism, as farmers’ unions and opposition parties accuse the government of resorting to force and intimidation to suppress the protests. The ongoing farmers’ unrest poses a significant challenge for the Modi government, which, despite attempts to find a resolution, has yet to achieve a breakthrough in the protracted standoff.
