Gohana (Sonipat): The Congress on Friday staged a protest in Gohana against the state govt’s newly introduced wheat procurement regulations, alleging that the measures are “arbitrary, impractical and anti-farmer”.Led by former minister Jagbir Malik and Baroda MLA Induraj Narwal, hundreds of farmers and residents marched from the irrigation department rest house to the mini secretariat, raising slogans and voicing strong opposition to the new rules.The protesters accused the govt of imposing policies without considering ground realities, claiming that the new system has made it increasingly difficult for farmers and commission agents to sell produce in mandis.A memorandum addressed to Haryana chief minister Nayab Singh Saini was submitted through the sub-divisional magistrate (SDM), demanding immediate rollback of the new procurement norms.Tensions escalated at the mini secretariat when the SDM was initially unavailable. MLA Induraj Narwal, along with farmers, staged a sit-in protest, forcing officials to respond. Nearly an hour later, the SDM arrived to formally accept the memorandum.Congress leaders claimed that mounting pressure from the protest compelled the govt to respond, with authorities now assuring 24-hour procurement of crops. However, they said this was only a partial victory and warned that the agitation would intensify unless all “anti-farmer” provisions were withdrawn.The controversy centres around recently introduced mandi regulations, including mandatory biometric verification, registration on the ‘Meri Fasal Mera Byora’ portal, compulsory number plates on tractor-trolleys, and strict time-bound procurement conditions.According to the protesters, these requirements disproportionately affect small and marginal farmers. Those relying on rented machinery or whose land is registered in women’s names face additional hurdles in accessing procurement centres.Leaders also flagged serious concerns over incomplete rabi crop registration. A large number of farmers are reportedly unable to sell wheat due to a lack of registration on the portal. The Congress demanded that the portal be reopened immediately to ensure wider access.Calling for urgent reforms, the party urged the govt to simplify procedures, ensure transparency, and adopt a more farmer-friendly approach.Warning of wider unrest, Congress leaders said failure to address these issues promptly could trigger large-scale agitation, holding the govt accountable for any escalation. They reiterated that the party would continue its struggle until all “anti-farmer” rules were scrapped.MSID:: 130000857 413 |
