Farmers Hold Akrosh Panchayat Over Ghaggar Drain Problems
Farmers under the All-India Kisan Sabha (AIKS) organized an 'Akrosh Panchayat' in Nathusari Chopta tehsil, Sirsa district, Haryana, on Monday. The gathering demanded permanent arrangements for water drainage from the Hisar Ghaggar Multipurpose Drain and resolution of pending irrigation-related issues.
The meeting was jointly chaired by farmer leaders Surjit and Gokul Beniwal, with representatives from villages across the region participating. Farmers announced a protest outside the Haryana Irrigation Minister's office in Bhiwani on June 25 if their demands are not met.
Key Demands Presented by AIKS Leaders
Addressing the panchayat, AIKS leader Abhimanyu Saharan outlined key demands: desilting of the drain, strengthening of embankments, installation of a gate near Ottu Head, and setting up high-capacity pumps to lift water from the drain into the Ghaggar river. Farmers also sought temporary pump sets before the monsoon until permanent arrangements are made.
Accusations of Neglect by Authorities
Protesters accused the district administration and Irrigation Department of ignoring long-pending issues that could cause flooding and heavy losses to crops and property during the rainy season. Farmer leader Balwan Poonia stated that residents had raised these concerns repeatedly but authorities failed to act. "People will have to come forward to protect their homes and fields," he said.
Broader Criticism of Trade Policies
State AIKS president Balbir Singh criticized the Centre's proposed trade negotiations with the US, claiming such agreements could adversely affect Indian farmers.
Tractor March and Memorandum Submission
Before the panchayat, farmers conducted a tractor march in the area. Later, they submitted a memorandum to Executive Engineer Sandeep Sharma, who assured that some demands would be considered. However, farmers maintained that the main issue of installing adequate pumping infrastructure remained unresolved and would be raised during the June 25 protest. Several farmer, labour and employee union leaders were present at the meeting.
