Chandigarh, 10 July (H.S.):

Thousands of farmers under the banner of the Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) gathered at the Exhibition Ground in Sector 34, Chandigarh, on Friday to protest against the proposed India-US trade deal and the Punjab government's new land pooling policy.

The protest was led by SKM leader Joginder Singh Ugrahan. Farmers first assembled at Sector 34 before proceeding in buses, tractor-trolleys and other vehicles to Matka Chowk in Sector 17. The rally caused traffic congestion at several locations in the city.

The Chandigarh Administration had granted permission for the march only up to Matka Chowk, restricting the protest to the approved route. Heavy police deployment and barricading were put in place at both Sector 34 and Matka Chowk to maintain law and order. Several farmers were also seen travelling on the roofs of buses during the rally.

After reaching Matka Chowk, the protesters returned to the Exhibition Ground in Sector 34, where a public meeting was held. The administration had allowed the rally for one-and-a-half hours, from 12:30 pm to 2 pm, during which traffic diversions were implemented on key roads across the city.

The Samyukt Kisan Morcha alleged that the proposed India-US Free Trade Agreement would adversely affect Indian agriculture, the dairy sector and small-scale industries. Farmer leaders claimed that cheaper imported agricultural products could flood the domestic market, leading to lower prices and reduced income for Indian farmers.

The protesters also opposed the Punjab government's new land pooling policy, alleging that it is against the interests of farmers and could have a negative impact on agricultural land. They urged the government to withdraw the policy and consult stakeholders before implementing such measures.

Hindusthan Samachar / GURSHARAN SINGH