Farmers' Protest: What is Gramin Bharat Bandh that will halt rural blocks on February 16?

Farmers' Protest: Renowned farmer leader Rakesh Tikait, a prominent figure in the 2020 farmers' protest, unveiled plans for a Gramin Bharat Bandh scheduled for February 16. Tikait emphasized that this unique concept entails the suspension of all agricultural activities in villages across the country.

Farmers' Protest: Participation and support

Tikait outlined that farmers will abstain from working on their lands, with laborers joining the strike as well. The Bharatiya Kisan Union (Tikait) leader highlighted the broad support for the strike, with various segments of village communities expressing solidarity through different means of participation.

#WATCH | Farmers' protest | Farmer leader Rakesh Tikait says, "We have spoken about 'Gramin Bharat Bandh' - that farmers do not go to their farms tomorrow. This will send a big message tomorrow...This agitation has a new ideology, a new method. Highways will not be shut. But… pic.twitter.com/ahJjcTtRQm

Farmers' Protest: What is Gramin Bharat Bandh?

The Gramin Bharat Bandh will span from 6:00 AM to 4:00 PM, encompassing various forms of protest:

• Closure of Village Markets: All local markets in villages will remain shut.
• Chakka Jam on Main Roads: Farmers will stage chakka jams on major thoroughfares from noon to 4:00 PM.
• Suspension of Agricultural and MNREGA Works: No agricultural or MNREGA-related activities will take place on February 16.
• Halt in Supply and Purchase of Produce: Transactions involving vegetables and other crops will be suspended for the day.

Farmers' Protest: Impact on urban areas

While government offices, banks, and schools will operate normally, urban areas may experience disruptions in certain services:

• Transportation: Availability of public transportation may be limited, affecting commuters.
• Supply Chains: Milk and vegetable supplies could be disrupted.
• State Buses: Operations may cease in states where local unions support the bandh.

Farmers' Protest: Supporters of the strike

The Gramin Bharat Bandh has garnered support from various quarters:

• Farmers' Unions: Several farmers' unions have endorsed the strike.
• Central Trade Unions: Trade unions at the national level are also backing the bandh.
• Political Backing: The Rajasthan Congress has pledged support to the farmers' cause, emphasizing a peaceful demonstration.

The Gramin Bharat Bandh underscores the ongoing resolve of farmers and their supporters to advocate for their demands. As rural India prepares to come to a standstill on February 16, the nation braces for a day of protest and reflection on the plight of its agricultural communities.