The Aryavarth Express
Agency(Shambhu Border, Haryana): Sarwan Singh Pandher, the General Secretary of the Punjab Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee, strongly criticized the Punjab government for not filing a First Information Report (FIR) regarding the death of a young farmer at the Khanauri Border amid ongoing protests. Pandher condemned the government’s approach, calling it an insult to the deceased’s sacrifice.
Pandher expressed frustration over the delay in filing the FIR, despite the government accepting all demands during negotiations. These demands included filing a murder case against the attackers, granting ‘martyr’ status to the deceased, Shubhkaran Singh, discussing compensation with his family, and ensuring a transparent postmortem process. More than 14 hours after the agreement, the Punjab government had yet to respond.
The farmer leader accused the Punjab government of betraying the trust of the protesters. He highlighted the inaction in taking measures against officers who allegedly committed brutal acts against the farmers, including firing live bullets and using tear gas. Pandher mentioned that senior officers typically file an initial FIR and then proceed with investigations, but the Punjab government was hesitant to take this step.
Pandher also questioned the Punjab government’s unclear position on the protests. He referred to the Chief Minister’s claim of central government pressure, implying a threat to dissolve the state government under Article 356 of the Constitution. Despite assurances of support for farmers and laborers, Pandher pointed out inconsistencies in the government’s actions, such as barricading certain areas and obstructing access to amenities for protesters.
The unresolved situation has hindered the performance of the last rites for Shubhkaran Singh. The protests, led by the Sanyukt Kisan Morcha, have been temporarily halted for two days following the incident. In response to the death, Bharatiya Kisan Union leader Rakesh Tikait announced the observance of ‘Black Friday.’
Union Minister Arjun Munda expressed the Central Government’s commitment to farmer welfare and resolving issues through dialogue. He mentioned the Agriculture Ministry’s efforts in addressing the concerns of farmer associations. The ongoing agitation has led the Confederation of All India Traders to advocate for inclusive dialogue involving all stakeholders in the agricultural sector. The farmers have been protesting at the Shambhu border near Ambala since February 13, with several injuries reported during clashes.
