AMN /
The Punjab agitating farmers have extended their ongoing rail-roko stir in the state till tomorrow evening. They have taken this decision despite being called for a meeting with Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal tomorrow to hold detailed discussions on various issues confronting them.
The eight farmers’ bodies which are jointly holding the protest have not even paid heed to Mr. Badal’s appeal to shun the path of agitation and find an amicable solution of their problems through dialogue.
Besides affecting hundreds of trains connecting Delhi with Punjab, the agitation has forced the railway authorities to cancel Delhi-Lahore Samjhauta Express till the protest is over. Ferozepur Railway Divisional Manager Anuj Parkash told AIR that it may remain cancelled on Monday also. He said the situation will be cleared after consulting the railway ministry today.
Farmers are demanding 40 thousand rupees per acre relief for losses to cotton growers due to white-fly attack. Higher MSP for Basmati than what government has announced and 5 lakh rupees financial assistance to the families of those farmers who had committed suicide due to ongoing crisis.