Fearing serious repercussions if the farmers proceed with their plan to March to and inside capital city Delhi, Indian government rushed three senior ministers to Chandigarh where they met farmers’ leaders with Punjab chief minister as intermediary.
Following the meeting with Union Ministers Piyush Goyal, Nityanand Rai, Arjun Munda, and Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann, farmer leaders provided insights into the discussions, setting the tone for the upcoming Delhi march slated for February 13.
Jagjit Singh Dallewal, representing the farmers, conveyed a sense of optimism, highlighting the positive ambiance during the deliberations. Applauding the proactive stance of the Punjab Government, Dallewal underscored the comprehensive presentation of demands, coupled with factual evidence.
In a crucial gesture of engagement, Dallewal noted the government”s commitment to earnestly scrutinize the farmers” grievances. Despite the imminent march to Delhi, slated to advocate for long-pending demands such as MSP guarantee, pension, and loan waiver, Dallewal expressed willingness to engage further if the government convenes another meeting and resolves their issues beforehand.
“We had a meeting with the Government today. The meeting was held in a positive atmosphere, Punjab Govt took the initiative. We presented all our demands in detail, with facts…The government listened to us & said that they will examine all our facts seriously…Our program for 13th February will continue as it is. Government has assured us that there will be another meeting soon. If the Government convenes a meeting before the 13th and resolves our issues, it is fine. Otherwise our program for the 13th will continue as it is…,” Dallewal told media after the meeting with the union ministers.
Meanwhile, farmer activists gear up for the anticipated march, ensuring logistical preparedness by loading essentials like blankets, ration, medicines, tents, and water for langar on tractor trailers. However, tensions brew as the Haryana Police initiate preparations at the Shambhu border to deter Punjab farmers from entering Ambala. Undeterred, farmers associated with BKU Ekta Sidhupur from Punjab assert their determination to reach Delhi, drawing from past experiences of government resistance.