Karnal, March 20: The sit-in protest by farmers demanding the construction of a service lane on the Karnal Ring Road, near Sohana village, continues unabated. On Friday, this agitation entered its 43rd day. Neither adverse weather conditions—including heavy rain and storms—nor any other obstacle has been able to dampen the farmers' spirits. Throughout this period, the protesting farmers have raised their voices vigorously, chanting slogans against the administration and the government, and hailing "Long Live Farmer Unity!" The agitating farmers have categorically stated that their protest will continue until the construction work for the service lane officially begins.
BKU District President Surender Singh Ghumman, General Secretary Surender Beniwal, Chairman Yashpal Rana, and District Chairman Sahib Singh Bajwa stood firmly alongside the protesting farmers. Speaking in unison, the farmer leaders declared that they would continue to stand in solidarity with the farmers in this manner until their demands are fully met.
The sit-in, being held under the banner of the Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU), was presided over on Friday by farmer leader Dhira Sangwan. A large number of farmers remained present at the protest site. Accusing the administration of reneging on its promises, the protesting farmers pointed out that they had previously received written assurances regarding their demand; however, these assurances are currently not being implemented. Consequently, they have been compelled to resort to this protest.
Addressing the gathering, farmer leader Surender Sangwan emphasized that the construction of the service lane is absolutely essential for the farmers and common residents of the surrounding villages, as it would facilitate smoother movement and connectivity. Despite this necessity, the administration continues to stall on the issue, a delay that is fueling growing resentment among the farmers. He added that, very soon, this sit-in would be transformed into a "permanent protest camp" (*Pakka Morcha*).
BKU District Spokesperson Surender Sangwan stated that the farmers are presenting their demands in a peaceful and democratic manner. However, due to the administration's continued indifference, the situation is escalating toward a more intensified agitation. He issued a stern warning that if a resolution is not found soon, the scope of the protest will be significantly expanded—a development for which the administration alone will bear full responsibility. The farmers reiterated that this struggle is not limited merely to the service lane; rather, it is intrinsically linked to their rights and the development of the region. They affirmed that they will not back down until their demands are met.
Those Present:
A large number of farmers were in attendance, including Baburam Sharma, Rajesh Beniwal, Anil Sharma, Raju Sangwan, Bhana Sharma, Shrichand Kashyap, Sanjeev Kashyap, and Chandrabhan Rana.