Punjab farmer leaders invite Centre for talks to resolve issues

Chandigarh: Farmers protesting at the Khanauri and Shambhu borders have called for dialogue with the central government to address their demands and reduce mistrust between the two sides. The farmers’ plea comes amid ongoing Supreme Court hearings on the issue.

Farmer leader Abhimanyu Kohar stated, “We are reviewing the developments in the Supreme Court and will also discuss this with Dallewal Ji.”

Kohar expressed concern over the deteriorating health of farmer leader Jagjit Singh Dallewal, who has been on a hunger strike for 36 days to push for a legal guarantee of Minimum Support Price (MSP) and other demands.

The Punjab government informed the apex court that Dallewal had agreed to seek medical assistance on the condition that the Centre accept the farmers’ proposal for talks. Kohar emphasized the importance of dialogue, saying, “When our Prime Minister resolves international issues through dialogue, why can’t the same approach be applied here? Farmers are citizens of this country and deserve a platform for discussions.”

The Supreme Court has adjourned its hearing on the matter until January 2. The case involves allegations of non-compliance with the Punjab government’s directive to admit Dallewal to a hospital.

Farmer leaders hope the constitutional bodies will urge the Centre to engage with the farming community and address their grievances.

As the protest enters its 36th day, both sides are urged to prioritize dialogue to bridge the gap of mistrust and find a resolution.