Punjab Govt Clears Farmers from Borders, Calls for Alternative Protest Methods

The Punjab government has cleared protesting farmers from the Shambu and Khanauri borders, citing economic disruptions caused by the prolonged demonstrations. Addressing the situation, Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema stated that the government supports the farmers' cause but urges them to adopt alternative means of protest that do not block highways, which serve as vital lifelines for the state.

#WATCH | Chandigarh | On protesting farmers removed from Shambu and Khanauri borders, Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema says, "...The roads have been opened. This farmers' protest was harming the economy of Punjab. Aam Aadmi Party stands with the farmers protesting… pic.twitter.com/AVXYrLXVNw

— ANI (@ANI) March 20, 2025

"The roads have been opened. This farmers' protest was harming the economy of Punjab," said Cheema. "The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) stands with the farmers protesting against the Central government and requests them not to block highways."

Farmer Leaders Detained Amidst Protest Clearance

As part of the measures taken to remove protesters from the border areas, farmer leaders Jagjit Singh Dallewal and Sarvan Singh Pandher have been placed under preventive detention. Their detention comes amid rising tensions between protesting farmers and security forces over their demands, including guaranteed Minimum Support Price (MSP) and other agricultural reforms.

The farmers' agitation, which has been ongoing for weeks, saw thousands of farmers marching towards Delhi to press for their demands. However, the blockade of major highways raised concerns about economic disruptions in Punjab, affecting trade, transport, and daily life.

Government's Balancing Act Between Farmers and Economic Interests

While expressing solidarity with the farmers' cause, the Punjab government has attempted to strike a balance between supporting their demands and ensuring minimal disruptions to the state's economy. Cheema's remarks highlight the growing pressure on the AAP-led government to manage the situation without alienating the influential farmer community.

The removal of the protest sites and the detention of leaders mark a significant shift in handling the ongoing farmer agitation. Whether this leads to further escalation or negotiations remains to be seen.