DELHI ANDOLAN 2 – All Eyes on February 14 Meeting
Fast-Unto-Death: A powerful Weapon of Protest as Delhi Andolan 2 gains momentum ahead of One-Year Mark
HARISH MONGA
Ferozepur (Shambhu Border), February 6, 2025: As the Delhi Andolan-2 spearheaded by farmer and labour organisations nears its one-year milestone; the Shambhu Border Morcha continues to witness an increasing influx of farmers and labourers. The agitation, initiated on February 13 last year, has become a stronghold of resistance against governmental policies affecting the agricultural sector.
Providing an update on the movement, Sarwan Singh Pandher, state leader of the Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee Punjab and coordinator of Kisan Mazdoor Morcha Bharat, stated in a press release that preparations are underway for the anniversary gatherings across all protest sites. With a key meeting scheduled with the government on February 14, Pandher urged authorities to present a concrete proposal addressing the long-standing demands of farmers and labourers. However, he expressed scepticism given the government’s lacklustre approach toward agriculture during the budget session.
In an escalating move, farmer leaders have also hinted at intensifying their struggle, potentially adopting hunger strikes—an age-old and powerful non-violent protest tool. Historically employed by figures like Mahatma Gandhi, fast-unto-death places immense moral pressure on authorities, drawing public sympathy and media attention. While governments may attempt to ignore or suppress such actions, the humanitarian aspect often forces them to engage in dialogue. Protesters believe that such measures could amplify their demands and push the government into meaningful negotiations.
Apart from agricultural issues, Pandher strongly criticized the Modi government’s silence over the deportation of Indian youths from the United States. He attributed the crisis to flawed policies that have left young Indians with no viable employment opportunities, compelling them to seek risky migration routes. Slamming the government for its inaction, he demanded immediate financial aid and job opportunities for the deported individuals, stating that they were treated like criminals despite being victims of a failing system.
He also appealed to the youth to resist the urge to flee abroad and instead unite to challenge the government’s anti-people and pro-corporate policies. He urged them to struggle for employment reforms and a robust agricultural sector within their homeland rather than seeking uncertain futures overseas.
In preparation for the upcoming February 13 program, farmers and labourers launched a large-scale cleanliness drive at the Shambhu Border Morcha, showcasing their commitment to discipline and solidarity. Leaders called upon farmers and labourers from Punjab, Haryana, and across North India to gather in large numbers on the day of the protest to send a strong message to the authorities.
Among the key leaders present at the event were Kanwar Dilip Saidolehal, Baldev Singh Bagga, Jarmanjit Singh Bandala, Kandhar Singh Bhoywal, Sukhdev Singh Chatiwind, Dilbagh Singh Gill, and Harpreet Singh Behramke, along with hundreds of farmers and labourers, all reinforcing their unwavering commitment to the movement.
With the movement gaining momentum, all eyes are now on the February 14 meeting, where farmers hope for a resolution, though scepticism remains high. The battle for justice in the agricultural sector continues, with protesters determined to sustain their struggle until their demands are met.