FARMERS THREATEN TO BLOCK ROADS TOMORROW OVER FAILURE TO PROCURE PADDY AT ABOHAR

Raj Sadosh/Abohar.

There is significant resentment among farmers in Abohar due to the failure to procure their paddy crop at the local grain market for the past several days. In response, representatives from various farmers’ unions—including the Bharatiya Kisan Union (Khosa)—have warned the market committee officials that if the paddy is not procured by 5:00 PM tomorrow, they will fill the entire market committee office with paddy and stage a protest (dharna) on the National Highway.

Meanwhile, during a meeting with the farmers, the Market Committee Chairman and the Tehsildar of Abohar sought time until tomorrow evening to resolve the issue, stating that they would consult with the Deputy Commissioner (DC) regarding the matter.

Taking a dig at the AAP government in Punjab, the farmers remarked that the administration shows no concern for them. They have been waiting in the grain markets with their paddy for days, yet no procurement is taking place. They alleged that only the produce of those farmers who offer a “cut” gets purchased.

The farmers expressed regret over the “badlav” brought about in Punjab, noting that the officials currently in the market committee seem to have no fear of the government. They pointed out that the positions within the market committee are occupied by individuals who do not even know the way to the grain market—yet the government has entrusted them with its management, leaving them completely oblivious to the plight and hardships of the farmers.

They issued a stern warning: if the paddy stacked by the farmers in the grain market is not procured promptly, they will be forced to stage a protest on the main roads with their produce, even if it means facing police action.