The farmers' protest in Punjab has once again erupted into a major confrontation between the protestors and the authorities, with police crackdowns, detentions of farmer leaders, and heightened security across key protest sites. The recent actions by the Punjab government and law enforcement agencies have drawn sharp criticism from opposition parties, activists, and farmers' unions, leading to widespread protests across the state.

What Led to the Renewed Protests?

The ongoing agitation by farmers primarily revolves around their demands for a legal guarantee of Minimum Support Price (MSP) for crops, as promised during previous negotiations with the government. Additionally, the farmers are opposing various policies that they believe threaten their livelihoods, including new agricultural reforms and reduced procurement of crops by government agencies.

On March 19, 2025, Punjab Police launched a crackdown on the protests, forcibly removing farmers from key protest sites at the Shambhu and Khanauri borders, which had been occupied for over a year. Several farmer leaders, including Jagjit Singh Dallewal and Sarwan Singh Pandher, were detained in Mohali, triggering further unrest across the state.

Police Crackdown and Detention of Leaders

Reports indicate that over 700 farmers have been detained so far, with Punjab Police using bulldozers and cranes to dismantle protest sites. Security has been heightened at the Haryana-Punjab border, and internet services have been restricted in some areas to prevent the mobilization of protestors.

The crackdown has led to widespread criticism from political figures, with opposition parties accusing the AAP government in Punjab of betraying the farmers. Congress leader Charanjit Singh Channi claimed that the action was planned in collaboration with the central government, while Shiromani Akali Dal's Sukhbir Singh Badal condemned the use of force against protestors who were called for talks before being detained.

Political Reactions and Nationwide Protests

The government's actions have sparked statewide protests, with farmer groups organizing chakka jams (road blockades) and hunger strikes in various parts of Punjab. Congress MPs have also staged demonstrations in Parliament, accusing the AAP and BJP of colluding against the farmers.

Prominent BJP leaders in Punjab, including Sunil Jakhar, have defended the government's actions, arguing that prolonged protests disrupt normal life and trade in the region. However, wrestlers like Bajrang Punia and various activist groups have urged the public to stand in solidarity with the farmers.

The Role of the AAP Government and Its Changing Stance

The AAP government in Punjab, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, has come under fire for its shifting stance on farmers’ issues. During the previous farmers' protests against the now-repealed farm laws, AAP had supported the movement and even provided logistical assistance, including Wi-Fi and water at protest sites. However, with the latest crackdown, critics argue that the party has abandoned the very farmers it once championed.

BJP leader Ravneet Bittu has claimed that AAP is trying to sabotage negotiations between farmers and the central government. Meanwhile, Shiromani Akali Dal’s Bikram Singh Majithia accused Bhagwant Mann of showing double standards—supporting farmers when in opposition but turning against them after coming to power.

Who is Jagjit Singh Dallewal?

One of the most significant figures in this movement is Jagjit Singh Dallewal, a veteran farmer leader who has been on a hunger strike for over 110 days demanding the implementation of MSP laws. His detention has intensified the protests, with many farmer unions vowing to escalate their agitation until he and other detained leaders are released.

What Happens Next?

With security tightened and detentions continuing, the next steps remain uncertain. However, farmer unions have announced that they will continue their protests, with a possibility of marching towards Delhi if their demands are not met. Opposition parties, particularly the Congress and Shiromani Akali Dal, have called for statewide shutdowns and mass demonstrations.

As the situation unfolds, it is clear that the Punjab farmers’ movement is far from over, and its outcome will have far-reaching political and social implications across India.

Key Developments to Watch:

✔ Possible talks between farmer leaders and the government
✔ Legal action or further police measures against detained protestors
✔ Response from the central government and Prime Minister’s office
✔ Public and opposition-led protests across Punjab and other states

The fight for farmers' rights continues, and all eyes remain on Punjab as the crisis deepens.