The Kisan Mazdoor Panchayat, a collective representing farmers and agricultural labourers, convened a significant meeting in Barwala, Hisar district, to voice pressing concerns affecting their livelihoods. The gathering, held at the local grain market, saw participation from community members and local officials, including the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM). The panchayat presented a list of demands focusing on land rights, irrigation, and fair crop pricing.
Key Demands: Land, Water, and Minimum Support Price
A central issue raised was the problem of land acquisition. The panchayat members highlighted that compensation for land acquired for the Dadupur-Nalvi canal project remains unresolved for many. They demanded that the state government expedite the process and ensure fair compensation for all affected landowners. This long-pending issue continues to be a source of distress for numerous families in the region.
Another critical demand pertained to irrigation water. The farmers emphasised the urgent need for a regular and adequate supply of canal water to their fields. They argued that inconsistent water supply severely impacts agricultural productivity and threatens their primary source of income. Ensuring reliable irrigation was flagged as essential for the survival of farming in the area.
The issue of Minimum Support Price (MSP) also took centre stage. The panchayat strongly advocated for the legal guarantee of MSP for all crops, a longstanding demand of farmer unions across India. They stressed that without this assurance, farmers are left vulnerable to market fluctuations and often fail to recover their production costs, pushing them into debt.
Official Response and Community Sentiment
In response to the grievances, SDM Sanjay Kumar, who attended the meeting, assured the panchayat that their concerns would be communicated to higher authorities. He acknowledged the legitimacy of the issues, particularly regarding land compensation and water supply, and promised to follow up on the administrative steps needed to address them. This direct dialogue between the community and local administration was a key aspect of the meeting.
The panchayat's action reflects the growing unrest among agrarian communities in Haryana over economic insecurity and unfulfilled promises. The meeting served as a platform to consolidate their demands and present a united front to the local administration. The members made it clear that they expect concrete action and timelines for resolution, not just assurances.
The outcomes of this meeting are being closely watched. The Kisan Mazdoor Panchayat has indicated that if their demands are not met in a satisfactory manner, they may be forced to escalate their protest. The situation in Barwala underscores the broader challenges faced by India's farming community, highlighting the critical need for sustainable policies on land, water, and fair remuneration.
