The Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM), a prominent farmers' organization, has announced that its delegation will participate in the protest organized by the Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) at Jantar Mantar in New Delhi on July 5. The decision was taken during a meeting of SKM leaders, who expressed solidarity with the farmers' ongoing struggle for their demands.
Background of the Protest
The protest, led by the CITU-affiliated Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Samiti, aims to pressurize the government to address the long-pending issues of farmers, including the demand for a legal guarantee of Minimum Support Price (MSP) for all crops, loan waivers, and the withdrawal of cases against farmers involved in the 2020-2021 protests. The SKM's participation is seen as a significant boost to the agitation, as it brings together two major farmer unions under a common platform.
SKM's Statement
In a statement released on Wednesday, SKM leader Rakesh Tikait said, "The SKM stands firmly with the farmers' cause. We will join the protest at Jantar Mantar to demand justice for the farming community. The government must listen to the voices of farmers and take concrete steps to resolve their issues." The SKM has also called upon farmers from across the country to join the protest in large numbers.
Demands of the Protesters
The protesters have a charter of demands, including the implementation of the Swaminathan Commission's recommendations, which include a legal guarantee for MSP. They are also demanding the withdrawal of the Electricity (Amendment) Bill, 2022, which they claim will harm the interests of farmers. Additionally, they are seeking the release of farmers who were arrested during the previous protest and the withdrawal of all cases against them.
Government's Response
The government has not yet officially responded to the protest call. However, Union Agriculture Minister Narendra Singh Tomar had earlier stated that the government is committed to the welfare of farmers and has taken several steps, including the expansion of the PM-KISAN scheme and the increase in MSP for various crops. The minister also emphasized that the government is open to discussions with farmer unions to address their concerns.
Impact and Significance
The SKM's participation in the protest is likely to increase its visibility and strength. The joint protest by the SKM and CITU could put additional pressure on the government, especially in the run-up to the upcoming state elections. The farmers' movement, which had subsided after the repeal of the three farm laws in November 2021, has been gaining momentum again in recent months. The protest at Jantar Mantar is expected to be a major event, with thousands of farmers expected to participate.
