Bhopal, Dec 1 (NationPress) More than two thousand farmers from various districts of Madhya Pradesh organized a significant protest on Monday, obstructing traffic on National Highway-52 for several hours to advocate for their demands, which include loan waivers and the procurement of crops at Minimum Support Price (MSP).

Farmers from districts such as Dhar, Khargone, Khandwa, and Barwani gathered early in the morning to stage a sit-in at the Khalghat Toll Plaza, effectively halting vehicular movement. This prompted the local police and district administration to respond.

Rameshwar Patidar, a leader among the farmers at the scene, shared with the media that numerous farmer organizations have rallied behind the protest to voice concerns regarding MSP, compensation for damaged crops, and debt relief.

“In the last six months, we have sent multiple letters to Chief Minister Mohan Yadav requesting a meeting to discuss farmers' issues. Unfortunately, we have not received any acknowledgment from the CM. Now, we feel compelled to take to the streets to ensure our voices are heard,” Patidar stated.

The protest caused significant disruptions on NH-52, stranding hundreds of vehicles for hours. During the demonstration, farmers recited the Hanuman Chalisa and chanted religious slogans while displaying posters and banners. Officials who arrived at the location requested that the farmers end their protest, assuring them that their message would be communicated to higher authorities.

“Some government representatives came and asked us to end the protest, but we want written confirmation. Similar promises were made before, yet nothing materialized. We demand that a senior minister meet with us here,” Patidar insisted, dismissing verbal commitments.

Following repeated appeals from senior police officials, the farmers eventually consented to clear one lane of the roadway for traffic while continuing their demonstration on the other side.

A heavy police presence was established at the location to prevent any potential incidents, as confirmed by officials.

Dhar Superintendent of Police (SP) Mayank Awasthi verified that traffic disruptions occurred earlier but the situation was brought under control after one lane was cleared by the farmers.

This farmers' agitation coincided with the commencement of the Winter session of the Madhya Pradesh Vidhan Sabha, which began in Bhopal on Monday amid opposition uproar from the Congress party.