Punjab: Agriculture workers protest outside CM Bhagwant Mann's residence
A massive protest was held outside the residence of Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann in Sangrur, Punjab. The protest was being organized by the trade unions to press their demand for wage hikes for agriculture workers. Protesters clashed with police, who used batons to contain the gathering. Notably, Mann is currently in Gujarat to campaign for Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) ahead of the elections.
What are the protesters demanding?
According to NDTV, the protesters are demanding the minimum daily wages under MGNREGA be raised to Rs. 700. They also demanded the implementation of the 5-marla land scheme. Other demands include the 33% reservation for Dalits in village cooperative societies, an increase in recompense for land acquisition, relief for farmers suffering due to cattle deaths from lumpy skin disease, and compensation for crop damage.
Protesters clash with police near CM residence
Reports said the labor unions' earlier-announced protest rally began in the morning. At around 3:00 pm, demonstrators gathered near the Patiala Bypass and marched towards the CM's residence. When they got to the residential society where Mann had rented an apartment, police halted them-triggering a clash. To recall, farmers held a similar protest in October which was later called off after the government's assurances.
Watch: Video of the protest shared on Twitter
AAP blames BJP for the protest
Meanwhile, the AAP claimed that the protest in Punjab is backed by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). It said the BJP was under pressure from the AAP campaign in Gujarat, and this is their counter. Notably, the Dalit reaction against the AAP is reportedly likely to benefit the BJP. AAP's support among the community and indigenous people is dwindling, NDTV reported.
