credit: The Indian Express
Farmers staged a motorcycle rally in Punjab’s Hoshiarpur district on Wednesday to protest the proposed India-US trade agreement, warning that the pact could have serious consequences for India’s agricultural sector.
The march was organized by the Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee’s Piddi Group following a call from farming organizations under the banner of the Desh Bachao Morcha.
Led by district president Paramjit Singh Bhulla and district general secretary Kuldip Singh Begowal, the rally began after an ardas, or prayer, at Gurdwara Pull Pukhta Sahib near Tanda. Protesters then travelled through the area on motorcycles.
The farmers later reached the office of Dasuya Sub-Divisional Magistrate Kanwaljit Singh, where they submitted a memorandum addressed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi demanding the immediate withdrawal of the proposed trade agreement with the United States.
Protesters alleged the trade pact could negatively affect farmers, agricultural workers, livestock rearers, small traders and micro-industries across the country.
They expressed concern that the agreement could allow cheaper agricultural imports to enter the Indian market, potentially putting pressure on domestic farm incomes and the broader agricultural economy.
Farm leaders described the proposed deal as a “death decree” for farmers and said they would not accept an agreement they believe threatens the livelihoods of rural communities.
The protesters also warned that farming groups could launch a nationwide movement if the government fails to address their concerns. They said any further demonstrations would be carried out through democratic and constitutional means.
The rally comes amid heightened scrutiny of India’s trade negotiations with the United States and concerns among agricultural groups over the potential impact of greater market access for foreign farm products.
