Hardly a day after a forensic report found incriminating evidence regarding the Lakhimpur Kheri violence, clashes broke out between Ferozepur farmers and Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leaders on November 10, 2021.
Farmers group Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM) had alleged that five farmers were mowed down by SAD ex-MLA Vardev Singh Maan’s vehicle after an event attended by MP Harsimrat Kaur Badal. Protesters had gathered near the venue to speak to Kaur about her party’s stand regarding the three contentious farm laws. In turn, Badal promised to meet them after the programme. However, leaders later refused to meet farmers after the conclusion of the party rally.
According to The Hindu, tensions rose when Badal quietly left and farmers tried to stop other leaders like Joginder Jindu and Singh alias Noni Mann from leaving the area. People allegedly attacked vehicles with sticks and rods, Ferozepur Senior Superintendent of Police Harmandeep Singh Hans told The Hindu.
Meanwhile, the SKM claimed that farmer Harnek Singh was dragged by the vehicle for over one kilometre, and accused SAD leaders of opening fire on protesting farmers. Condemning the event, farmer leaders demanded FIRs against SAD leaders for the attempt to murder.
“A protest march will be organised on November 11 from the District Commissioner’s office to demand justice in the incident,” said leaders in a joint press release.
In Haryana, the indefinite dharna outside the SP office in Hansi district continues for a third day. Thousands of farmers joined the protest demanding the repeal of FIRs on farmers for allegedly assaulting BJP MP Ram Chander Jangra’s car. However, Haryana CM Manohar Lal Khattar refused to accept the farmers’ demands.
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