Why Are Internet Services Suspended in Hanumangarh Ahead of Farmers’ Mahapanchayat?
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Synopsis
In a precautionary measure for the upcoming farmers’ mahapanchayat in Hanumangarh, internet services have been suspended. Tensions rise as farmers protest against an ethanol factory, leading to a standoff between the SKM and district officials. Key leaders express their intent to proceed despite administrative conditions.
Key Takeaways
- Internet services suspended in Hanumangarh district.
- Farmers are protesting against the ethanol factory in Tibbi.
- Discussions between SKM and district officials ended without agreement.
- Tractors considered essential for farmers' transport.
- Mahapanchayat scheduled for December 17 will proceed as planned.
Jaipur, December 16 (NationPress): Internet services have been halted throughout Hanumangarh district starting at 11 AM on Tuesday and will remain suspended until 12 PM on Wednesday. This decision was made by the Divisional Commissioner in anticipation of the farmers' mahapanchayat set for December 17 at the grain market located in the district headquarters.
The purpose of the mahapanchayat is to voice opposition against the ethanol factory in Tibbi. Officials indicated that this suspension is a precaution to ensure law and order during the event.
A meeting took place late Monday night between members of the Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM) and district administration representatives but ended without reaching a consensus.
The stalemate occurred when District Collector Khushal Yadav insisted that tractors not be allowed at the mahapanchayat, a demand that farmer leaders vehemently opposed.
Among those present during the discussions were Superintendent of Police Harishankar and other senior officials. The district administration, represented by the Collector and the SP, stated that the mahapanchayat would be contingent on specific conditions, including a prohibition on tractors, a cap on the number of attendees, and prior approval for the gathering.
The SKM had proposed the grain market in Hanumangarh Junction as the venue for the mahapanchayat. Representatives Mangej Chaudhary, Resham Singh Manuka, and Raghuveer Verma from the Samyukta Kisan Morcha rejected the administration's stipulations.
They argued that tractors are vital for farmers' transportation and that without them, participants would struggle to reach the location.
Following the discussions, Mangej Chaudhary declared that the movement would not adhere to the conditions set by the administration and affirmed that the mahapanchayat would proceed as planned.
District Collector Khushal Yadav reiterated the decision to deny tractor access, referencing previous instances of misuse during earlier protests in Tibbi.
Meanwhile, prominent farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal from Punjab arrived in Hanumangarh on Monday, expressing support for the agitation committee. However, he informed that he would not be able to participate in the December 17 mahapanchayat due to a nationwide initiative involving the submission of memorandums to District Magistrates.
Point of View
It is crucial to present a balanced perspective on the ongoing farmers’ agitation in Hanumangarh. The district administration's decision to suspend internet services reflects their concerns about maintaining public order. However, the farmers’ right to assemble and voice their grievances must also be respected. Navigating these tensions requires sensitivity and understanding from all parties involved.
NationPress
16/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why were internet services suspended in Hanumangarh?
Internet services were suspended as a precautionary measure to maintain law and order ahead of the farmers’ mahapanchayat scheduled for December 17.
What is the purpose of the mahapanchayat?
The mahapanchayat aims to protest against the ethanol factory in Tibbi.
Who are the key figures involved in the discussions?
Key figures include District Collector Khushal Yadav and representatives from the Samyukta Kisan Morcha.
What conditions did the administration impose for the mahapanchayat?
Conditions include no entry of tractors, a limit on participant numbers, and prior permission for the gathering.
Will the mahapanchayat proceed as planned?
Yes, the leaders from the SKM have stated that the mahapanchayat will proceed according to the original schedule despite the imposed conditions.
