Farmers in Punjab criticize AAP for betrayal

Farmers in Punjab are facing turmoil after a large-scale crackdown by police, leading to the detention of about 700 farmers. Leaders, including Gurpinder Singh and Ishpreet Singh, have been unable to contact their fathers, both prominent farmer leaders who were participating in protests. On March 19, they were arrested while attending a meeting in Chandigarh, which was intended for dialogue but ended in detentions. Many farmers at the Khanauri border were shocked as police and heavy machinery arrived to demolish makeshift homes. Bana Brar, a farmer leader, described the event as an "ambush." The police reportedly seized belongings like appliances and destroyed housing that farmers had constructed over the course of their protests. On March 18, the Indian government invited farmer leaders for a meeting, and despite a lengthy discussion, it did not yield a consensus. As farmer leaders were leaving, they were arrested in Mohali, leading to allegations that the detentions were planned in advance. The police claimed that they did not use force during the operations, but many farmers reported injuries in the crackdown. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government has been criticized by both farmers and opposition parties. Many farmers feel betrayed by AAP, which had initially positioned itself as a supporter of their cause. Allegations suggest that the government's actions were politically motivated, possibly aimed at appealing to urban voters and addressing concerns from traders. The mood among remaining protesters is tense. Many are holding rallies in their villages against the government, reflecting feelings of disillusionment. Amid these protests, the organizations involved in the farmer's movement appear to be divided, with differing priorities and strategies. Upcoming protests and collective actions are planned, but the situation remains fluid. Farmers are determined to continue voicing their demands despite the recent setbacks. They aim to honor their struggle while organizing further protests against what they see as oppressive government actions.