Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann declared an end to the standoff between the government and protesting farmers demanding higher sugarcane prices, following discussions with farmer union leaders in Chandigarh. He confirmed the clearance of the railway track in Jalandhar and assured the clearance of the main highway.
“We’ve reached a resolution. Details will be announced after consulting all stakeholders. Our discussions addressed the disruption of rail and road traffic. All unions agreed not to inconvenience the public due to protests. Expect positive news soon, though I won’t unveil it today. The government will do so shortly,” Mann stated during a media address.
Earlier this week, farmers had blocked the Jalandhar-New Delhi National Highway seeking an increase in the assured sugarcane price from Rs 380 to Rs 450 per quintal, causing significant traffic congestion.
“Traffic jams stranded ambulances and people for up to four hours. They had to navigate through villages to reach their destinations,” Mann highlighted.
When asked about yielding to union pressure, Mann clarified, “This wasn’t about taking credit or succumbing. It’s about the assurance to lift the protests. We aim to prevent future situations where people suffer due to such disruptions.” Mann emphasized consulting sugarcane millers before finalizing any decisions. “Before making announcements, their input is crucial. Punjab initially set the SAP at Rs 380, recently elevated by Haryana,” he added. Addressing the issue of dues to sugar mills, Mann informed, “Government-owned mills have been paid Rs 709 crore in dues, clearing all government debts. Only two private mills, one owing Rs 46 lakh in Dhuri and another owing Rs 14.86 crore in Phagwara, have outstanding dues.” Responding to criticism for condemning protests despite having participated in them previously, Mann clarified, “I advocate for peaceful protests without inconveniencing the public. No organization can function by troubling people.”Regarding an upcoming protest by Samyukt Kisan Morcha, Mann attributed their focus on stubble burning to a dispute with the Centre. He urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to address the issue comprehensively. Farm leader Manjit Singh Rai expressed optimism after Mann’s assurance regarding sugarcane prices, expecting a better deal than Haryana. “We trust the Chief Minister’s commitment, hoping for a favorable resolution during the upcoming Vidhan Sabha session,” Rai stated.Responding to Mann’s concerns about lack of information on previous memorandums, Rai emphasized the need for an improved communication system to relay farmers’ concerns effectively.
