Farmers Stand Firm: Statewide 'Rail Roko' Protest Challenges Electricity Bill

Farmers across the state staged a 'Rail Roko' protest against the draft Electricity (Amendment) Bill, 2025, fearing it could privatize the power system. The demonstration demanded a legal guarantee on MSP. Protesters briefly delayed trains but faced police intervention, leading to detentions and scuffles.

In a bold move to oppose the Centre's draft Electricity (Amendment) Bill, 2025, farmers across the state took part in a two-hour 'Rail Roko' protest. Organized by the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha (KMM), the protest attempted to halt train services across 26 locations, pushing for a legal minimum support price guarantee.

While the protest led to temporary train delays, there were no route cancellations. From Ferozepur to Amritsar, farmers squatted on tracks, facing police detentions that did not deter their resolve. The protests were largely peaceful, though minor scuffles erupted at certain points.

The protesters criticized the bill as 'anti-farmer,' voicing concerns over privatization and centralization of the Indian power system. Despite police barriers, farmers remained committed to their cause, advocating changes that safeguard agricultural interests.

(With inputs from agencies.)