December 2, 2024: Farmers from Uttar Pradesh are set to embark on a major protest march today from Noida to Delhi, demanding compensation and benefits under the new agricultural laws. The demonstration, which will begin at noon near the Mahamaya Flyover in Noida, is expected to draw thousands of participants from over 20 districts, including Gautam Buddh Nagar, Agra, Aligarh, and Bulandshahr.
The protest is organized by the Bhartiya Kisan Parishad (BKP) in collaboration with other farmer groups such as the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha (KMM) and Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM). Led by BKP leader Sukhbir Khalifa, the farmers will march on foot and in tractors towards the Parliament complex in the heart of Delhi, where the Winter Session of Parliament is currently underway.
The farmers are demanding a series of measures, including a 10 per cent allocation of plots and a 64.7 per cent increase in compensation under the old land acquisition law. They are seeking compensation that is four times the market rate and want 20 per cent of the acquired land to be allocated to them after January 1, 2014. Additionally, they are calling for employment and rehabilitation opportunities for the children of landless farmers, the passing of government orders on the issues raised by the High Power Committee, and proper settlement of populated areas.
In response to the planned protest, security in Delhi-NCR has been tightened, with the police installing barricades along key routes and diverting traffic in anticipation of large crowds. The authorities have also prepared for potential disruptions in traffic as the farmers make their way towards the national capital.
This march follows a series of similar protests by Uttar Pradesh farmers, who have been vocal in their opposition to the current agricultural policies and land acquisition laws. The government has yet to make a formal response to the farmers' demands.
The march's organizers have emphasized their commitment to peaceful demonstrations, urging authorities to engage in dialogue with farmers to address their concerns.