The farmers protesting against the Centre’s three farm laws are observing Wednesday (May 26) as ‘black day’ to mark six months of their stir. The call to observe it as a ‘black day’ was given by Samkyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM), an umbrella body of the protesting farmers’ unions.

Also read: Farmers’ protests will continue for five years: BKU leader Rakesh Tikait

What did the SKM say?

The umbrella body on Tuesday said that the farmers’ movement “is running on truth and non-violence and will be completing six months of its historical struggle on Wednesday,” reported PTI.

“SKM requests all Indians to celebrate and mark Buddha Poornima tomorrow, so that truth and non-violence find a strong place back in our community, at a time when attempts are being made to erode these basic values in our society,” SKM’s statement added.

Also read: Supreme Court appointed committee submits report on Centre’s farm laws

How will this black day be observed?

The SKM has appealed to all the citizens to hoist black flags from their homes, vehicles and other places. The farmers will wear black turbans and black chunni.

Kulwant Singh, a farmer leader, said that they will fix black flags at every border, the news agency reported.

“On Wednesday, there will be black flags fixed at the three borders of the city (Delhi) where farmers are protesting,” Singh said, adding that no farmer will try to enter the national capital. 

Opposition parties extend support

As many as 12 Opposition parties have extended support for the protest. These include the Congress, Trinamool Congress, Left parties, SP, NCP and DMK.

Also read: When the impasse on farmers will end? Agriculture minister’s candid response

Why are farmers protesting?

Tens of thousands of farmers are protesting against the Centre’s three farm laws, which were enacted last year in September. Although the Centre has projected these as major reforms in the agriculture sector, the farmers have asserted that the laws will lead to the corporatisation of the farming sector.