Punjab: on March 5, 2025, Punjab Police detained several farmer leaders, including Bhartiya Kisan Union (Ekta-Ugrahan) president Joginder Singh Ugrahan, to thwart the Samyukt Kisan Morcha’s (SKM) planned protest in Chandigarh. The detentions occurred amid heightened security measures across the state, aiming to prevent the farmers’ march toward the capital.
Detention of Joginder Singh Ugrahan
Punjab Police intercepted Joginder Singh Ugrahan, a prominent figure in the farmers’ movement, at Mehlan Chowk in Sangrur district while he was en route to join the SKM protest. They then took him to Chhajli police station. Despite his detention, leaders from the Ekta-Ugrahan faction have expressed their determination to proceed with the planned march toward Chandigarh later in the day.
Preventive Measures in Barnala
In Barnala district, a convoy of approximately 1,000 activists from various farmer unions, including BKU Ekta-Dakaunda (Dhaner), BKU Dakaunda (Burj Gill), BKU Kadian, BKU Ekta Ugrahan, BKU Rajewal, and the Krantikari Kisan Union Punjab, was halted at the Badbar toll plaza on National Highway-7. Led by Barnala Senior Superintendent of Police Sarfaraz Alam, a contingent of around 500 police personnel was deployed to prevent the activists from advancing toward Chandigarh, ensuring the smooth flow of traffic in the area.
Statewide Crackdown on Farmer Leaders
The detentions are part of a broader strategy by Punjab Police, who conducted pre-dawn raids across the state, targeting the residences of farmer leaders ahead of the planned SKM protest. This crackdown follows unsuccessful negotiations between the Punjab government and SKM representatives. Authorities detained several leaders, while others evaded arrest, sparking resistance and clashes in certain areas.
Enhanced Security at Chandigarh Borders
In anticipation of the protest, security has been intensified at the Chandigarh-Mohali border. Authorities erected barricades to prevent protesters from entering the capital. Punjab Police stopped SKM members en route to Chandigarh as they tried to voice their demands.
Background of the Protest
The SKM’s planned protest in Chandigarh stems from ongoing grievances related to agricultural policies and demands for a legal guarantee on Minimum Support Price (MSP) for crops. Despite previous discussions with government officials, many of these issues remain unresolved, prompting the call for renewed demonstrations.
Government’s Stance
The Punjab government has expressed concerns over potential disruptions caused by the protest and has emphasized maintaining law and order. The preemptive detentions and heightened security measures reflect the administration’s intent to prevent any escalation.
Farmers’ Response
Farmer unions have condemned the detentions, viewing them as attempts to suppress their democratic right to protest. They assert that such actions will not deter their movement and have vowed to continue their struggle for fair agricultural policies.
Implications for Future Protests
The current crackdown may shape how authorities manage future farmer protests in Punjab and neighboring states. The resilience of the farmer unions suggests that tensions may persist, necessitating continued dialogue between the government and agricultural stakeholders.
Joginder Singh Ugrahan’s detention underscores rising tensions between Punjab’s farmers and the state government amid ongoing protests and police crackdowns. As both sides stand firm on their positions, the path to a peaceful resolution remains uncertain. The situation underscores the need for constructive dialogue to address the underlying issues affecting the farming community.
