Punjab Shutdown: Farmers Halt Traffic and Railways

Aakhir Tak – In Shorts

1. Farmers staged blockades across Punjab, halting road and rail transport.
2. The agitation caused 163 train cancellations and blocked over 200 key routes.
3. Farmers demand a legal guarantee for MSP and reforms on debt and pensions.
4. Emergency services, including medical and flights, were excluded from the shutdown.
5. Farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal’s hunger strike entered its 35th day.

Aakhir Tak – In Depth

Why Did the Punjab Shutdown Happen?

The shutdown was called by Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha to pressure the government into addressing their demands. The farmers are pushing for a legal guarantee of the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for crops, along with reforms like debt waivers, pensions, and a rollback of increased electricity tariffs.

Impact on Roads and Railways

The agitation affected multiple highways and rail networks. Major blockades included IISER Chowk in Mohali, Ambala-Delhi Highway near Lalru, and the Golden Gate entry point in Amritsar. Rail services faced massive disruptions, with 163 cancellations, several delays, and stoppages.

Law and Order Management

Around 600 police personnel were deployed in Mohali alone to maintain order. Emergency services were exempted from the bandh, allowing critical travel for medical, wedding, or job-related purposes.

Key Leaders and Developments

Farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal continues his fast-unto-death, refusing medical care on its 35th day. The Supreme Court has urged the Punjab government to prioritize his health and consider involving the central government if necessary.

Protesters’ Next Steps

Farmers camping at the Punjab-Haryana border since February 13 vow to continue their struggle. Despite several attempts, security forces blocked their efforts to march to Delhi, intensifying the agitation.

Aakhir Tak – Key Takeaways to Remember

1. Punjab shutdown disrupts key transport routes and services.
2. Farmers demand MSP guarantee and other social reforms.
3. Railway services face massive cancellations and delays.
4. Police personnel deployed heavily to ensure law and order.
5. Hunger strike by leader Dallewal continues as Supreme Court intervenes.

Aakhir Tak Editor-in-Chief

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