Farmers and unions have called for a ‘Gramin Bharat Bandh’ tomorrow.Check what is open and what is not

The Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM), along with central trade unions, has called for a Gramin Bharat Bandh (nationwide strike) on February 16 to press their demands to the Center amid the ongoing farmers’ protest at Delhi borders.

The bandh was called in the wake of the ‘Delhi Chalo’ riots led by SKM splinter outfits Samyukta Kisan Morcha (apolitical) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, facing tear gas shells near Ambala and Jind as protesters tried to break through by Hariya Narbang police prevented them from traveling to the national capital.

The Samyukta Kisan Morcha (non-political) has urged all like-minded farmer organizations to come together and participate in the Bharat bandh. The day-long protest will begin at 6 a.m. and end at 4 p.m. Farmers will participate in Chakka Jam on major roads across the country from 12 noon to 4 pm.

What will remain closed

according to a hindustan times Transport, agricultural activities, Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MNREGA), rural works, private offices, village shops and rural industries and services establishments are likely to remain closed on Friday, February 16, the report said.

Some reports say emergency services such as ambulance operations, newspaper distribution, marriages, medical shops, students taking exams are unlikely to be affected during the strike.

according to a report MintThe Punjab State Board is scheduled to hold the Class 10 science examination on February 16, the day of Gramin Bharat bandh. Therefore, the Punjab Democratic Teachers Front has requested the state government to postpone the exams. They said both students and teachers may face problems when reaching the centres.

The association has extended its support to the Gramin Bharat Bandh appeal.

farmers’ needs

In its letter to the Prime Minister, SKM mentioned their demands, which include MSP for all crops based on Swaminathan formula C2+50 (capital input cost + 50%), legal safeguards for procurement, debt relief, no increase in production, etc. . Electricity bills and no smart meter.

They also demanded 300 units of free electricity for homes and shops, comprehensive crop insurance and an increase in pension to Rs 10,000 per month, among others.

“Your ministers have been hesitant to talk to SKM and are more interested in talking to other platforms to show that the farmers’ movement is divided to evade their constitutional responsibility to solve the problems plaguing farmers,” SKM said.