Chandigarh: The Punjab government and farmer organisations led by the Samyukt Kisan Morcha reached an agreement on several demands during a meeting at Punjab Bhawan in Chandigarh on Sunday evening.
The meeting, which began at 6 pm and continued until 8.30 pm, was held in a cordial atmosphere. The farmer organisations have been protesting on the Chandigarh border since September 1.
As part of the agreement, the Punjab government will convene a special session of the state Assembly in September to discuss the repeal of Sections 78, 79 and 80 concerning water-related awards and agreements involving Punjab. The Seed Amendment Bill and electricity bills will also be discussed, with resolutions to be passed and sent to the Centre.
A resolution on one-time settlement of loans with cooperative banks will also be brought before the Assembly.
The government agreed to take steps against those involved in the theft of farmers’ agricultural motors and cables. A nodal officer will be appointed to resolve pending compensation and employment cases of families of farmers who died during protests.
The government also agreed to increase the sugarcane procurement price, with the revised rate to be higher than that offered in Haryana. Canal outlets will be repaired and redesigned on a scientific basis.
Action will also be initiated to withdraw cases registered in Chandigarh against farmers during the Delhi farmers’ protest. A joint committee, including representatives of farmer organisations, will be formed to address other pending issues.
Farmer leader Prem Singh Bhangu and several other leaders confirmed that an agreement had been reached between the two sides.
