Punjab Speaker Criticizes Gallantry Medals for Police Involved in Farmers' Protest

Punjab Legislative Assembly Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan condemned the awarding of gallantry medals to police officers involved in quelling farmers' protests. In a letter to PM Modi, he stressed the farmers' plight and questioned the decision’s sensitivity and context. Farmer groups plan nationwide protests against the move.

Punjab Legislative Assembly Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan has written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, condemning the decision to award gallantry medals to policemen involved in stopping a farmers' protest. Sandhwan expressed his concerns over the recommendation by the Director General of Police of Haryana for gallantry medals to six officers who played a role in halting the farmers' march at the Shambu border.

In his letter, Sandhwan supported the farmers' demands and highlighted the negative portrayal and mistreatment of the farming community. He emphasized the critical role of farmers in the nation's food security and criticized the awarding of gallantry medals as insensitive, arguing that such actions undermine democratic values and disrespect peaceful protests.

Meanwhile, farmer organizations, such as the Samyukt Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, announced plans to burn effigies of the Modi government and launch a fresh protest to legalize MSP guarantees. They plan a nationwide tractor rally on August 15 and a series of rallies in various districts to continue their campaigns.

(With inputs from agencies.)