Railway tracks blocked in Punjab as farmers push back against Electricity Amendment Bill, 2025

The Hindu
The Hindu
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Farmers in Punjab protested by blocking railway tracks against the Electricity Amendment Bill, 2025, claiming it harms their interests. They threatened to escalate their actions if demands are unmet.
Railway tracks blocked in Punjab as farmers push back against Electricity Amendment Bill, 2025
A What happened
Farmers in Punjab staged a protest on December 5, 2025, blocking railway tracks as part of a 'symbolic rail roko' agitation organized by the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha. They are demanding the withdrawal of the Electricity Amendment Bill, 2025, which they believe will negatively impact the agriculture sector and worsen their financial situation. Senior farmer leader Sarwan Singh Pandher criticized the central government for ignoring their grievances and accused the state government of attempting to sell government lands. Despite police detentions of some leaders, a significant number of farmers participated in the protest. Pandher warned that if their demands are not met, they will escalate their actions, including the removal of smart meters on December 10.

Key insights

  • 1

    Protest against Electricity Bill

    Farmers claim the bill threatens their livelihoods.

  • 2

    Escalation of Agitation

    Farmers plan to remove smart meters if demands are ignored.

  • 3

    Government Land Sales

    Farmers oppose state attempts to sell government lands.

Takeaways

The farmers' protest highlights ongoing tensions between agricultural communities and government policies, particularly regarding legislation perceived as harmful to their interests.

Topics

Environment Agriculture Business Economy