Farmers Protest in Punjab Over Sugarcane Dues

A group of farmers in Phagwara, Punjab, led by Bharti Kisan Union (Doaba) activists, demonstrated against a local sugar mill over Rs 41 crore in unpaid sugarcane dues. The management assured payment by August 31, with plans to auction attached properties on September 12 pending court approval.

A group of farmers on Thursday organized a protest in Punjab's Phagwara, demanding the payment of Rs 41 crore in outstanding sugarcane dues from a local sugar mill.

Led by general secretary Satnam Singh Sahni of the Bharti Kisan Union (Doaba), the activists vocalized their discontent against the mill's management, highlighting Rs 27 crore outstanding from the 2022-23 season and an additional Rs 14 crore plus interest pending for the 2023-24 season.

Sub-divisional magistrate Jashanjit Singh addressed the protesters, noting that the mill's management had committed in writing to settle this season's dues by August 31. He added that 14 properties valued at Rs 33 crore have been attached and may be auctioned on September 12, subject to Punjab and Haryana High Court's approval, as the management seeks legal recourse.