Guwahati: Farmers from Punjab, Haryana and other states are heading to Delhi for a Mahapanchayat at Kisan Ghat to protest against the proposed India-US trade agreement, despite the deal not being finalised yet.
The protest, organised under the banner of the ‘Desh Bachao Morcha’, is expected to see participation from farmers from Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan and Himachal Pradesh. Farmer groups have raised concerns that cheaper US agricultural imports could affect domestic farmers, agricultural labourers and livestock rearers.
Ahead of the gathering, Haryana Police increased security at key border points, including Khanauri, Bastara and Shambhu, with barricading and restrictions imposed in some areas.
Farmer organisations, including the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, fear that greater market access for American farm products could lower crop prices and impact rural incomes. They have demanded that the Centre reject any trade agreement that compromises the interests of Indian farmers.
The India-US trade negotiations are still underway, with agriculture emerging as one of the major areas of disagreement. The Indian government has maintained that it will not compromise on sensitive farm sectors and will ensure that any agreement protects the interests of farmers.
Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal has said India will sign a trade pact only if it is balanced and beneficial for both countries, while officials have indicated that discussions are continuing before reaching a final agreement.