Farmers Hold Tractor March in Punjab Amid Rain

Punjab In a powerful show of dissent, farmers in Punjab organized a tractor march in Amritsar today, braving heavy rains to voice their opposition to the state government’s Land Pooling Policy. The protest, which saw a significant turnout, was led by various farmer unions and supported by local communities who expressed deep concerns about the future of agricultural land and the rights of landowners.

Farmers assembled early in the morning with tractors, banners, and slogans, marching through key routes in Amritsar city. Despite the challenging weather conditions, the enthusiasm and determination of the participants did not wane. Their primary demand is the withdrawal of the Land Pooling Policy, which they claim threatens their ownership and control over agricultural lands. According to the protesting farmers, the policy could lead to forced acquisition of land under the guise of development, leaving farmers with inadequate compensation and little say in how their lands are used.

The protesting groups argue that the policy is more favorable to private developers and urban planners than to the farmers who depend on their land for their livelihood. They also claim that the policy lacks transparency and proper consultation with farmer communities. Many believe this could lead to large-scale displacement and erosion of traditional farming practices in Punjab.

Security was heightened across the city, especially along the planned protest route, to ensure peace and order. Police officials coordinated closely with protest organizers to avoid any disruption or clashes. So far, the march has remained peaceful, with no incidents of violence or unrest reported.

Farm leaders have announced that similar protests will be held across other districts if the government does not respond to their demands. They insist on a complete rollback of the Land Pooling Policy and call for a dialogue with the farming community before implementing any new policies that affect agricultural land.

The Punjab government, meanwhile, has stated that the policy aims to promote planned development and urban growth while offering fair compensation and modern infrastructure benefits to landowners. However, the growing resistance from farmers indicates that a more inclusive and transparent approach is required to resolve the issue.

This tractor march serves as a reminder of the power of collective farmer movements in Punjab and the urgent need for policies that balance development with the rights and livelihoods of those who till the land.