Chandigarh – The Samyukt Kisan Morcha, SKM SKM Plans to Gherao AAP MLAs on March 10 MLAs across Punjab on March 10. This decision follows the lifting of their ongoing sit-ins in the state.
Background of the Protests & SKM Plans to Gherao AAP MLAs
The SKM had previously called for a week-long dharna (sit-in) in Chandigarh starting March 5, 2025, to press for various demands, including a legal guarantee for Minimum Support Price (MSP) and the withdrawal of cases against farmers registered during earlier protests. However, the Punjab Police thwarted their attempt to march to Chandigarh by setting up multiple checkpoints and enhancing security at all entry points to the Union Territory.
Decision of SKM to Gherao AAP MLAs
In response to the police action, the SKM held an emergency meeting in Ludhiana on March 6, 2025. During this meeting, it was decided to hold dharnas outside the residences of AAP legislators on March 10 from 11 am to 3 pm. Harinder Singh Lakhowal, general secretary of the Bhartiya Kisan Union (Lakhowal), criticized the AAP government for preventing farmers from moving to Chandigarh to raise their voices.
Shift in Protest Strategy Amid SKM Plans to Gherao AAP MLAs
Initially, the SKM had planned a march to Chandigarh, dubbed ‘Chandigarh Chalo,’ to highlight their demands. However, after facing resistance from the Punjab Police, the SKM altered its strategy. Farmers who had been protesting on highways returned home following the SKM’s new call to gherao AAP MLAs in their respective areas on March 10.
Previous Instances of Gherao
This is not the first time the SKM has resorted to gherao tactics. In the past, they have gheraoed residences of BJP leaders in Punjab to press the central government into accepting their demands, including a legal guarantee to MSP on crops.
Government’s Stance
The AAP government in Punjab has yet to issue an official response to the SKM’s announcement of gheraoing their MLAs. Previously, the government had justified the preventive measures taken to maintain law and order, citing potential disruptions due to the planned Chandigarh march.
Future Course of Action
The SKM has scheduled its next meeting for March 15 at Kisan Bhawan in Chandigarh. During this meeting, they plan to decide on further actions and announce subsequent steps in their protest.
