Farmers' Protest Live Updates: Farmers begin 'Rail Roko' protest across Punjab; train services disrupted

Punjab’s farmer protests intensified as Jagjit Singh Dallewal’s hunger strike reached its 22nd day, with his health deteriorating dangerously. Medical experts warned of the possibility of cardiac arrest, as Dallewal continues his fast-unto-death at the Khanauri border, demanding legal guarantees on Minimum Support Price (MSP) and justice for injured farmers. Farmer forums, including Samyukta Kisan Morcha (Non-Political) and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha, declined the Supreme Court-appointed committee’s meeting scheduled for December 18, citing dissatisfaction with its efforts.Farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher announced a ‘Rail Roko’ protest across Punjab on Wednesday, urging citizens to halt train services from 12 to 3 PM in solidarity. “Punjabis need to fight as one,” Pandher stated, emphasizing the central government’s responsibility for resolving the deadlock.Support has poured in for Dallewal, with Punjabi singers and MPs like Manickam Tagore advocating for farmers’ demands. The Takht Damdama Sahib Jathedar urged MPs from Punjab and Haryana to raise these issues in Parliament. Meanwhile, SKM advanced its meeting to Wednesday to discuss backing the protesting forums and the leader’s demands.The agitation, which has crossed 309 days, highlights unresolved grievances including debt waivers, farmer pensions, and justice for victims of the 2021 Lakhimpur Kheri violence. Dallewal’s condition and growing public support have intensified the pressure on the central government to act swiftly. Farmers remain steadfast, vowing to engage in dialogue only with the central government regarding their demands.