Farmers' Protest: Deadlock persists over MSP; Fourth round of talks scheduled for February 18

Farmers' Protest: Authorities in Haryana and Delhi have bolstered their borders with multiple layers of barricades and the deployment of police and paramilitary forces, signaling the tense atmosphere surrounding the ongoing farmer protests.

Stalemate continues despite positive tone in previous talks

The third round of discussions between protesting farmers and a team of Central ministers concluded late Thursday night, leaving unresolved the critical issue of a legal guarantee on the minimum support price (MSP) demanded by the farmers. While the talks ended on a somewhat positive note, the impasse over MSP and loan waivers persists.

Previous attempts at negotiation on February 8 and 12 failed to yield results due to the deadlock surrounding MSP and other related issues.

The recent meeting, which extended past midnight, involved Union ministers Piyush Goyal, Nityanand Rai, and Arjun Munda, along with prominent farm leaders Sarvan Singh Pandher and Jagjit Singh Dallewal, alongside Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and Punjab Agriculture Minister Harpal Cheema.

Hope for resolution in upcoming talks

Arjun Munda expressed optimism about the discussions, describing them as "very positive." The parties agreed to reconvene on February 18 in hopes of reaching a resolution.

Bhagwant Mann emphasized the importance of maintaining peace during the protests and urged the Centre to prevent the use of force against farmers. He committed to mediating talks for Punjab, expressing concern over the potential escalation of violence.

Farmer's tragic death amplifies tensions

In a tragic turn of events, a 63-year-old farmer from Gurdaspur district, Gian Singh, passed away from a heart attack while participating in the protest at the Shambhu border. His death adds to the somber atmosphere surrounding the demonstrations.

Escalation at Shambhu border

While Thursday saw relative calm at the Shambhu and Khanauri borders, tensions flared again on Friday, the fourth day of protests. Reports indicate that Haryana police and paramilitary forces deployed tear gas shells to disperse demonstrators who allegedly engaged in stone pelting and set ablaze gunny bags, leading to sporadic chaotic scenes.