Farmers’ struggle has become a national movement to prevent corporate capture of India’s economy, national assets, federalism, democracy and unity, said farmers group Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM) on September 23, 2021. In a press release, SKM leaders called upon citizens to join them for the September 27 Bharat Bandh.
“We write to you on behalf of crores of annadaatas [farmers], who have been protesting peacefully against the three anti-farmer, pro-corporate central laws thrust on them undemocratically and unconstitutionally,” said the SKM.
Farmer leader Balbir Singh Rajewal said that their struggle is primarily about repealing the three laws and legalisation of Minimum Support Price (MSP) for all farmers and all agricultural produce. As such on Monday all government and private offices, educational and other institutions, shops, industries and commercial establishments, public events and functions will be closed from 6 AM to 4 PM.
Public and private transport will also be suspended during this period. However, emergency and essential services including hospitals, medical stores, relief and rescue work will be exempted. Following the ringing endorsement from all sections of society, farmers appealed to every Indian to join the Bandh.
“In particular, we appeal to all organisations of workers, traders, transporters, businessmen, students, youth and women and all social movements to extend solidarity with farmers. We also call upon all political parties and state governments, many of whom have endorsed our earlier calls and passed resolutions supporting the movement, to lend their support,” said the SKM while stating that representatives of political parties will not share its stage.
In preparation for this, Arwal villagers in Bihar held meetings and a mass campaign around Thursday to raise awareness about the nationwide movement.
Similarly, Patna farmers held a motorcycle rally wherein All India Kisan Mahasabha’s Bihar Co-Secretary Rajendra Patel, ACTU’s State Secretary Ranvijay Kumar, Jitendra Kumar, Construction Mazdoor Union leader Pappu Sharma participated.
Earlier Haridwar villagers also held a panchayat on Wednesday to celebrate 300 days of protest.
Related:
Accept farmers demands, end the struggle: SKM
Maharashtra peasants plan for complete Bandh on September 27
Stronger than ever! Farmers prepare for September 27 Bharat Bandh