Thousands to Gather in Chandigarh as Farmers Mark 5-Year Anniversary of Historic 'Delhi Chalo' March

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A nationwide worker-farmer demonstration is underway today to commemorate the 5-year anniversary of the 'Delhi Chalo' march, a pivotal moment in India's agricultural history. The Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM), an umbrella body of farmer organisations, is leading the protests, which will see over 10,000 farmers converge in Chandigarh. The 'Delhi Chalo' march, held in 2020 to protest the three farm laws, led to a year-long sit-in protest at Delhi's borders. The farmers' struggle, which lasted 380 days, resulted in the loss of 736 lives and ultimately led to the repeal of the three laws. Today's protests aim to reiterate the SKM's demands, including the implementation of a law to enforce the Minimum Support Price (MSP) based on the Swaminathan Commission formula. The farmers are also seeking loan waivers, the withdrawal of the Electricity Bill, 2025, and the repealing of the four labour codes. A memorandum addressed to President Droupadi Murmu outlines these demands and will be submitted at state and district levels after the protests. The SKM has also called for rallies, marches, and public outreach campaigns across India. With extensive traffic restrictions in place, security agencies are bracing for a significant turnout in Chandigarh. The SKM's protests come at a time when farmers are facing unprecedented distress suicides, with over 11 years of struggle. The demonstrations are a testament to the farmers' resilience and determination to fight for their rights. As the protests unfold, it remains to be seen whether the government will address the farmers' demands and provide the necessary support to the agricultural community.