Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann Appeals to Farmers: Avoid Harassment of Common People During Protests
Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann Urges Farmers to Avoid Harassment of Common People in Protests
Chandigarh, March 3, 2025 – In a crucial address to the farming community, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has called on farmers to reconsider using road and rail blockages as a form of protest. Speaking at a meeting with farmers at Punjab Bhawan, Mann emphasized that while the state government is open to dialogue and committed to resolving farmers’ concerns, disruptions to daily life caused by such protests are harmful to the general public.
The Punjab CM underscored the importance of peaceful protests and stressed that creating inconveniences for the common man only fuels resentment and undermines the effectiveness of the farmers’ cause. He also pointed out that the road and rail blockages do little to affect the Union government, but they severely disrupt the lives of ordinary citizens.
A Call for Dialogue, Not Disruption
CM Mann’s message came in the wake of ongoing protests by farmers’ unions over various agricultural issues. While acknowledging the right to protest as a democratic tool, the Chief Minister urged the farmers to avoid tactics that harm the general public. He argued that such actions only create discord and lead to public backlash, which ultimately damages the reputation of their cause.
“We understand the importance of the farmers’ issues and are always open for dialogue. But protests that disrupt people’s daily lives are counterproductive,” said Mann. He added that businesses, traders, and local industries have expressed frustration over the frequent disruptions, highlighting the economic toll it is taking on the state.
The Impact on Punjab’s Economy
The Punjab Chief Minister pointed out that businesses and industries in the state are being severely impacted by the frequent road and rail blockages. These blockages, often staged as part of farmer protests, result in economic losses as supply chains are disrupted, affecting both local businesses and the broader economy.
“Punjab’s economy is feeling the brunt of these protests. Traders and industrialists have been complaining that their businesses are being ruined due to these frequent blockages,” Mann said. He emphasized that such protests should not target the common man, as the Union government remains largely unaffected by these disruptions.
Farmers’ Demands and Union Government’s Role
Mann also made it clear that while the Punjab government stands firm in support of the farmers, many of the demands raised by farmers are related to policies that fall under the jurisdiction of the Union government. This has been a point of contention, as Punjab continues to face the brunt of these protests even though the core issues are often linked to central policies.
“For issues related to agricultural marketing and policies, the farmers should direct their attention to the Union government,” Mann noted. He reiterated that while the state government has a solid track record of supporting farmers, the Central government’s stance remains a significant challenge.
The Agricultural Marketing Policy and Loan Waivers
A major point of contention for the farmers is the National Policy Framework on Agricultural Marketing that was framed by the Union government. CM Mann has been vocal in his opposition to this policy, labeling it anti-farmer and anti-Punjab. He made it clear that agriculture and agricultural marketing are state subjects, meaning the Union government should not be involved in these matters.
The state government has already rejected the draft of this policy and conveyed their objections through a written reply to the Union government. Moreover, Mann highlighted the financial challenges facing Punjab’s farmers, citing the vicious circle of debt many are trapped in due to rising input costs and decreasing returns on crops.
In a bid to address these challenges, the Punjab government is working on a new agriculture policy for the state, with input from all stakeholders. The Chief Minister promised that the policy would be finalized soon, incorporating the concerns of farmers, traders, and industry representatives.
Addressing the Agrarian Crisis
Mann took a moment to underscore the government’s commitment to resolving the agrarian crisis in Punjab. He reiterated that debt relief for farmers remains a priority for the state government. The Chief Minister mentioned that while the Union government has been unresponsive to Punjab’s requests for loan waivers, the state would continue to advocate for farmers’ rights at the national level.
“The farmers of Punjab have made this nation self-sufficient in food production, and it is the responsibility of the government to ensure their welfare,” said Mann.
Looking Ahead: The Way Forward for Punjab
In conclusion, CM Mann called for a balanced approach to resolving farmers’ issues. While he emphasized that peaceful protests and dialogue are the right approach, he urged farmers to avoid tactics that create division and hardship for the general public.
The Chief Minister also promised continued support for Punjab’s farmers, asserting that the state government will stand firm in advocating for policies that benefit them. However, he acknowledged the role of the Union government in addressing many of the broader concerns facing the agricultural sector.
The Punjab government’s resolve to tackle the agrarian crisis and improve the welfare of farmers remains firm, but it is clear that a collaborative effort is needed from both the state and central authorities to address the complex issues farmers face.