Farmers across several states have called a 10-day strike. (Photo for representation)
Farmers in Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Punjab and Haryana have united to hold a 10-day strike starting Friday, June 1. The strike, 'Gaon Bandh' (village blockade), by farmers of several states is likely to affect supply of essential items like milk and vegetables to cities. The farmers are demanding waiver of loans, right price for their crops and implementation of recommendations of Swaminathan Commission.
In Maharashtra, farmers have announced a day-long strike on Friday, whereas in Madhya Pradesh farmers have declared a complete shutdown of supplies to cities. While the farmers have said that no eatables would be supplied from villages to cities in the state, the state government has claimed that it has made all necessary steps to tackle the strike.
Latest Updates:
Farmers strike Live Updates 12:40 pm: Farmers in Ludhiana's Samrala spill several litres of milk on road in protest.
Farmers strike Live Updates 11:58 am: We have decided to observe a Bharat Bandh on June 10 till 2 pm. Would like to request all the businessmen of cities to close their shops till 2 pm and pay tribute to farmers who have lost their lives in previous years: Shiv Kumar Sharma, President, Rashtriya Kisan Mazdoor Mahasangh
Farmers strike Live Updates 11:45 am:
Farmers strike Live Updates 10:15 am: The strike is likely to affect supplies in national capital Delhi too. Vegetable markets have three-day supply in store. However, if the farmers strike continues for a longer period, it will could have serious implications.
Farmers strike Live Updates 10:04 am: Farmers throw vegetables, milk on road as part of their protest in Punjab's Faridkot.
Farmers strike Live Updates 10:01 am: Reports of protest by farmers coming in from several cities across states. Madhya Pradesh police is on alert.
Farmers strike Live Updates 8:45 am: Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh, who reached Bhopal on Thursday, dubbed the farmers' agitation as an agitation of the Congress party. "The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government in the state is working for the welfare of farmers and it has taken several big decisions in their interest," Rajnath Singh said.
Farmers strike Live Updates 8:15 am: "The government responds to the rightful demands of the farmers with lathis and bullets. June 6 is a black day for farmers. Nothing will be supplied by villages to cities for the next 10 days, neither will anything be brought from the cities during the period," Sirohi said.
Farmers strike Live Updates 7.45 am: In Madhya Pradesh, Chief of Aam Kisan Union Kedar Sirohi told IANS that the agitation enjoys the support of more than 150 farmers organisation. Besides, all 50 Panchayats of the state have also announced to fight for the rights of farmers.
Farmers strike Live Updates 7.30 am: Farmers have announced a 10-day strike starting today in states like Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Rajasthan demanding better price for their produce. Farmers in Maharashtra also on a day-long strike.
Watch: Farmers strike to affect milk, vegetable supply in cities
