Farmers Protest: A 55-year-old farmer protesting at the Shambhu border between Punjab and Haryana has reportedly died by suicide, marking the second such incident at the protest site in just three weeks. This tragic event underscores the ongoing tensions surrounding farmers rights and agricultural policies in India.Background of the ProtestsFarmers have been demonstrating at the Shambhu and Khanauri border points since February 13, following their march to Delhi being obstructed by security forces. Organized under the banners of SKM (Non-Political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, these protests aim to compel the government to ensure a minimum support price (MSP) for crops, which has become a critical issue for many in the agricultural sector.Details of the IncidentThe farmer, who was from Pahuwind in Punjabs Tarn Taran district, took this drastic step at the Shambhu border, a site of protest for nearly a year. Reports indicate that he was deeply frustrated with the governments failure to address farmers concerns despite ongoing demonstrations.Tejvir Singh, a leader among the protesting farmers, conveyed that the deceased was particularly disheartened by the lack of resolution from the Centre. Following his suicide attempt, he was rushed to Rajindra Hospital in Patiala but sadly succumbed to his injuries.Previous IncidentsThis incident is not isolated another farmer had previously died by suicide at the same border on December 18. That individual was reportedly distressed over the health condition of Jagjit Singh Dallewal, a prominent farmer leader who has been on a hunger strike since November 26 at the Khanauri border.The situation surrounding Dallewal has raised alarms among fellow protesters, with warnings issued regarding potential unrest should anything happen to him.Abhimanyu Kohar, another farmer leader, articulated the gravity of the situation, stating, “God forbid if anything untoward happens to Dallewal ji, then perhaps the situation may not remain under control of the Central government.”Government ResponseIn light of these events, a High-Powered Committee appointed by the Supreme Court met with Dallewal on Monday. However, he declined medical assistance. Punjabs Health Minister Balbir Singh has urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to engage with Dallewal directly, emphasizing that such dialogue could alleviate tensions and facilitate a resolution to ongoing issues affecting farmers.“Punjab government is worried about his health condition...I appeal to the PM and the Union Agriculture Minister should talk to him... Even if the Prime Minister converses with him telephonically, then also, the entire problem will be solved,” Singh stated.As these protests continue to unfold, they highlight significant challenges faced by farmers in India and raise critical questions about agricultural policy and government accountability.
