Farmers in Punjab on Thursday began their three-day ‘rail roko’
agitation to protest against the three farm bills that were passed by the Parliament during its Monsoon Session. Despite the government’s claims that farmers will be benefitted by the new legislations, farmers in Punjab and Haryana have expressed concerns.

Members of the Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee sat on railway tracks in Amritsar, as they began their ‘rail roko’ agitation. The committee has announced the three-day agitation, starting on Thursday. 

The representatives of the committee said they were getting support from several sections including government employees and labourers, PTI reported. 

Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee president Satnam Singh Pannu said that they have appealed to representatives of political parties, ministers, MPs and MLAs not to take part in the farmers’ agitation.

Farmers are protesting over the three Farm Bills: Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement on Price Assurance and Farm Services Bill, 2020, The Farming Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Bill, 2020 and the Essential Commodities (Amendment) Bill, 2020. 

Now the bills await the President’s nod to become laws.

As many as 31 farmers’ outfits have given a call for the complete shutdown of Punjab on September 25 to protest against the bills.

Owing to the stir, the Ferozepur Railway division has suspended the operation of special
trains.

Railway authorities said 14 pairs of special trains will remain
suspended from September 24 till 26, PTI reported. The decision has been taken keeping in
mind the safety of passengers and protection of railway property from any
damage, officials said.