Farmers Union demands fair wheat procurement policies

Farmers in Punjab have taken to the streets in protest against the government's inefficiency in procuring wheat, sparking widespread demonstrations and hunger strikes. The unrest has spread throughout the province as small-scale farmers decry the lack of subsidies for wheat procurement and accuse the Punjab Agricultural Storage and Services Corporation (PASSCO) of showing favoritism towards private traders in wheat sales.

Chairman of the Farmers Union, Khalid Hussain Bhath, has made it clear that the protests will persist until the government establishes a definitive target for wheat procurement. Despite their peaceful demonstrations, many farmers have been detained by authorities, further exacerbating the situation.

The farmers are demanding fair compensation for their hard work and immediate actions to protect the agricultural sector. Hunger strike camps have been set up outside the Assistant Commissioner's office in Melsi, symbolizing the determination of the farmers to have their voices heard.

Law enforcement presence has intensified, leading to increased tensions as farmers report receiving threats and the looming threat of FIRs being lodged against them. This ongoing turmoil underscores the deep-seated discontent among farmers regarding the government's handling of wheat procurement and its failure to address their grievances.

As the standoff continues, farmers remain resolute in their demands, signaling a prolonged confrontation with the authorities until a resolution is achieved.

The protests by farmers in Punjab against the government's shortcomings in wheat procurement highlight the urgent need for policy reforms and fair treatment of agricultural workers. The escalating tensions underscore the importance of addressing the concerns of farmers and ensuring a sustainable future for the agricultural sector in Punjab.