Punjab traders give 10-day ultimatum to government amid farmer-trader tensions

Amid escalating tensions between farmers and traders, the Punjab Pradesh Beopar Mandal has issued a 10-day ultimatum to the state government, demanding a resolution to the ongoing stalemate.

“Farmers have been sitting on the tracks at Shambhu railway station and at the Shambhu and Khanauri borders of Punjab-Haryana since February. This has severely impacted the business of Punjab’s industry and caused significant inconvenience to commuters. Yet, the Punjab government remains indifferent, failing to mediate with the relevant authorities to resolve this issue,” said Sunil Mehra, general secretary of Punjab Pradesh Beopar Mandal, to the media.

Mehra highlighted the growing conflict between farmers and traders in Barnala, where farm unions have strayed from their core agricultural issues. He warned that such tensions could erupt elsewhere if left unaddressed. “The government is trying to appease farmers for their vote bank, but what about us? Aren’t we voters too? We pay taxes, provide employment, but in the end, we are the ones suffering,” Mehra remarked.

The Beopar Mandal, which consists of 26 sub-units across different districts of Punjab and represents over a lakh traders and shopkeepers, is feeling the brunt of the ongoing protests.

Parveen Goel, president of the Ludhiana district Beopar Mandal, pointed out the interdependence between farmers and traders. “In this situation, traders are suffering business losses. The farmers’ demands are directed at the central government and the Haryana government, but it is the residents of Punjab who are bearing the brunt, while Haryana and Delhi continue with business as usual. Isn’t it the duty of the state government to help end this stalemate? I am surprised at the state government’s approach,” Goel stated.

Mehra further elaborated on the broader economic impact, noting that the borders of Punjab and Haryana have been sealed, diverting business to Panipat and other centers in Haryana. “Trains are running late or being canceled. If nothing is resolved in 10 days, we will plan our next course of action,” he warned.

He emphasized that the general public should not suffer due to these protests, as it is not indicative of a progressive society. He called on both the Union and state governments to introspect and take appropriate action.

The farmers, under the banners of Kisan Mazdoor Morcha and SKM (non-political), have been protesting on the railway tracks at Shambhu railway station since April 17 and on highways since February 13, pressing for various demands.