Massive Support for Rakesh Tikait in Mahapanchayat! Farmers Tie 51-Metre Pagdi, Culprit Held

In a strong show of solidarity, the Bhartiya Kisan Union (BKU) held a mahapanchayat at the Government Inter College (GIC), Muzaffarnagar, on Saturday to protest the alleged assault on farmer leader Rakesh Tikait during a Jan Aakrosh Rally a day earlier.

The gathering, led by BKU Muzaffarnagar president Chaudhary Naresh Tikait, witnessed participation from Samajwadi Party (SP) and Congress leaders, who condemned the incident and extended their full support to the farmers’ cause. Naresh Tikait arrived with a convoy of tractors and vehicles, symbolizing the farmers’ strength and unity.

Political Leaders Slam the Attack

Addressing the crowd, SP MP Iqra Hasan lashed out at the perpetrators:

“Those who insulted Baba Rakesh Tikait ji and committed this shameful act are no less than terrorists. We strongly oppose this.”

SP MLA Atul Pradhan echoed similar sentiments, questioning the rally’s motives:

“Why call it a Jan Aakrosh Rally if it was meant to attack Tikait? These goons, emboldened by the government, will now face united farmers.”

Tikait Calls It a Conspiracy

Rakesh Tikait, visibly disturbed by the incident, labelled it a “pre-planned conspiracy” to derail the farmers' movement.

“Some people were trained and planted there. The atmosphere was deliberately spoiled,” he said.

“If they call themselves Hindus, let them answer—who is more Hindu than us? Politics in the name of martyrs must stop. The attackers were drunk—their intent was to kill us.”

Symbolic Gesture of Unity

In a powerful symbolic move, farmers from Gautam Buddh Nagar tied a 51-metre-long turban (pagdi) on Tikait, honouring his leadership and resolve.

Leaders such as SP MLA Madan Bhaiya (Khatauli) and Muzaffarnagar MP Harendra Malik also addressed the gathering and pledged continued support.

BKU Urges Swift Justice

BKU district president Naveen Rathi said the organisation was fully cooperating with police investigations.

“Farmers’ anger will not cool down until justice is delivered. We demand strict action against the culprits.”

Police have reportedly taken one of the accused into custody, and investigations are ongoing.