Chandigarh, December 30, 2024 : Big news for those traveling from Patiala to Chandigarh Farmers have taken to the roads in Patiala, blocking the toll plaza at Dharehri Jattan. Vehicles passing through are being diverted. In support of their demands, farmer unions have called for a Punjab Bandh today, Monday, from 7 AM to 4 PM. During this period, all services, except emergency services, will remain closed. Farmer leaders have called for the closure of roads, railways, shops, and commercial establishments.
In view of the Punjab Bandh, Northern Railway has announced the cancellation of 107 trains to and from Punjab.
Pandher confirms the Punjab Bandh call
Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher confirmed the Punjab Bandh call, stating that letters have already been written to the Prime Minister and Supreme Court judges, but no response has been received yet. Hence, the decision to call for a shutdown was made. Pandher added that the government is unwilling to hold discussions, leaving no option but to observe the bandh.
To ensure the success of the Punjab Bandh, farmer leaders have been assigned duties at various locations. They have also appealed to farmers across Punjab to support the bandh and make it successful.
Jagjit Singh Dallewal appeals to farmers
On Sunday, farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who is on a hunger strike at the Punjab-Haryana Khanauri border, criticized both the central and Punjab governments. He accused the Punjab government of preparing to suppress their movement by following in the footsteps of the central government. He urged people to gather in large numbers at Khanauri.
Dallewal stated that when they began their hunger strike, they believed in Gandhi’s method of peaceful satyagraha. Even the British government respected satyagraha, but the current government is attempting to crush their movement instead of listening to their demands. He alleged that the Punjab government, under central directives, is preparing to use force to attack their protest. He appealed to the public to come forward and help safeguard the movement.
Summary: Farmers protest Punjab Bandh, urging public support against government suppression and forceful actions.