Why Are Farmers Protesting Against the Punjab Government?

Synopsis
Farmers in Amritsar are voicing their frustrations against the Punjab government, demanding compensation for their ruined crops. The Bharatiya Kisan Union (Ekta-Sidhupur) claims negligence and lack of support from the authorities amid challenging weather conditions. What does this mean for the agricultural community?
Key Takeaways
- Bharatiya Kisan Union (Ekta-Sidhupur) protests against Punjab government.
- Farmers demand compensation for destroyed crops.
- Weather conditions have severely impacted wheat harvest.
- Government accused of negligence and false promises.
- Protests highlight the urgent need for agricultural support reforms.
Amritsar, May 4 (NationPress) The Bharatiya Kisan Union (Ekta-Sidhupur) has organized a demonstration in Khur Manian village, located in Punjab's Amritsar district, to voice their discontent with the Punjab government.
The farmers contend that their crops are facing destruction and that the Aam Aadmi Party government is failing to provide any financial assistance for their agricultural produce.
In an interview with IANS, farmer representatives Jaswinder Singh and Gurwinder Singh from the Bharatiya Kisan Union (Ekta-Sidhupur) accused the state administration of neglecting the farmers' welfare.
During the protest, the farmers criticized the AAP government for lacking adequate arrangements for crop storage at Khas Mandi.
"It’s the rainy season, and cloudy weather is leading to the destruction of wheat crops. Punjab Ministers seem to be preoccupied with their offices, making unrealistic promises. Our wheat has gotten wet due to overnight rains, and what’s worse is that the wheat brought in from the markets on April 17 has yet to be purchased," they expressed.
The farmers further lamented, "A significant portion of wheat was lost in a recent fire incident in Faridkot, and adverse weather conditions are ruining our crops. We were initially pleased with our harvest, but now our crops are spoiling. The government must come and observe the situation with their own eyes. We feel harassed; we spend the entire day at the market, yet our crops remain unsold. Selling this crop is crucial for our children's education and repaying our debts. Without sales, how can we manage our finances?"
In related news, Navdeep Kaur, Secretary of the Attari market committee, stated, "An illegal market has been established at a residence in Khur Manian village of Khasa, and its license has been suspended for 15 days, preventing purchases. We are addressing any issues faced by farmers in Hoshiar Nagar village and will keep them informed. We are committed to ensuring that farmers do not face any hardships during this time."