Mohali, 01 September (H.S.): The Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) has started a seven-day protest in Mohali over various demands related to farmers, agriculture and Punjab. The protest will continue from September 1 to 7, with farmers staging a sit-in on the road connecting Mohali and Chandigarh.

The SKM comprises 32 farmer organisations. One of their key demands is a legal guarantee for Minimum Support Price (MSP) for all crops. The farmers have demanded that MSP should be fixed according to the Swaminathan Commission's recommendation under the C2+50 formula.

The farmers have demanded the cancellation of old agreements related to Punjab's river waters and have sought a special session of the Punjab Assembly on the issue. They have also demanded restoration of Punjab's representation in the Bhakra Beas Management Board (BBMB).

The SKM has also called for complete loan waivers for farmers and farm labourers. Farmer organisations are opposing proposed free trade agreements with the United States and European countries, stating that cheaper agricultural imports could affect domestic crop prices.

The protesting organisations have demanded the withdrawal of the Electricity Bill-2025 and Seed Bill-2025. They have also sought the repeal of the Dam Safety Act and Disaster Management Act-2024.

The SKM has demanded that the price of sugarcane be fixed at Rs 500 per quintal. It has also sought a single-window payment system for farmers by private sugar mills on the lines of cooperative sugar mills.

Another demand is a monthly pension of Rs 10,000 for farmers, farm labourers and rural artisans.

Traffic Arrangements Changed in Mohali

In view of the protest, Mohali Police has closed the road from IISER Chowk towards Bestech Mall (Phase 11), Jagatpura and Chandigarh for all vehicles. Traffic heading towards Chandigarh from the Faidhan Barrier has also been diverted.

Police have suggested three alternative routes for commuters travelling towards Chandigarh. The first route is IISER Chowk - Landran Road - Sector 82/83 Road - Jagatpura - Chandigarh. The second route is IISER Chowk - Airport Road - IT City/Aerocity - Jagatpura - Chandigarh. The third route is IISER Chowk - Phase 9 Road - Sector 66/68 Road - Jagatpura - Chandigarh.

Farmers have arrived at the protest site with tractor-trolleys and set up camp. The protest is scheduled to continue until September 7, while the administration has made arrangements to manage security and traffic during the seven-day agitation.

Hindusthan Samachar / GURSHARAN SINGH