In a demonstration entering its third day on Saturday, Punjab farmers continue their 'rail roko' protest, demanding compensation for flood-damaged crops, a legal guarantee on Minimum Support Price (MSP), and a comprehensive debt waiver. The ongoing agitation has significantly impacted train services, leading to cancellations, short-terminations, and diversions, as confirmed by railway officials.
Farmers, representing several groups including Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee, Bharti Kisan Union (Krantikari), and Bharti Kisan Union (Ekta Azaad), have blockaded railway tracks in various locations including Faridkot, Samrala, Moga, Hoshiarpur, and others since Thursday. This widespread disruption has left hundreds of rail passengers stranded in Punjab and Haryana, prompting concerns among commuters, PTI reported.
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Passengers have voiced their grievances, citing the lack of information and disruptions to their travel plans. Instances include a passenger arriving at Ludhiana station from Jalandhar City, expressing uncertainty about the arrival of trains. Another passenger reported the cancellation of a train from Amritsar, forcing their family to travel by road to Ludhiana, yet uncertainty persists regarding the train's status.
Officials have confirmed the direct impact on the Ambala and Ferozepur railway divisions due to the ongoing protest. The participating farmer groups have outlined a series of demands, including a financial package for flood-affected regions, a legal guarantee for MSP, and a complete debt waiver for farmers.
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The three-day protest is scheduled to conclude on Saturday, with farmers emphasizing key demands such as a Rs 50,000-crore flood relief package for northern states, MSP alignment with the Swaminathan Commission report, and the complete forgiveness of farmers' debts. Additionally, farmers are seeking compensation and government jobs for the kin of those who lost their lives during the agitation against the now-repealed three farm laws.
