Farmers protest: Women lead protests against govt’s farm policies

Over the past few days, farmers have taken to the streets, across several states, to protest the passing of the three agriculture reform bills in the Parliament.

Punjab and Haryana were the epicentre of nationwide protests by over 350 farmers’ organisations under the umbrella of all the All India Kisan Sangarsh Coordination Committtee.

The forefront of several demonstrations in Punjab was women. Many of them were activists, college students and teenage school drop outs.

Women are seen raising slogans of revolution and addressing large gatherings of farmers, criticising the Centre’s farm policies.

Meanwhile, in a bid to express their support to the farmers, volunteers from Khalsa Aid, an UK based international Sikh charity were seen disturbing food and water to the protestors. The NGO has also set up makeshift kitchen to make meals for over 15,000 farmers who are protesting.

They have been distributing food, refreshments, snacks and water to all the agitators.
Thousands of protesters blocked roads and highways in many states, and were supported by prominent Opposition parties such as the Congress, Trinamool Congress and RJD, as well over 10 central trade unions.

Farmers fear the new legislation will slash the minimum support price regime, giving big advantage to the big corporate. However the government has constantly assured that it is committed to the welfare of the farmers and will opportunities to them.