Arrest Warrants Issued Against 25 Farmers Linked to 2022 Punjab Security Breach Incident

The Bharti Kisan Union Krantikari has criticised the Punjab government for issuing arrest warrants against 25 farmers. They are also upset about the addition of an attempt to murder charge in an FIR related to a security breach involving the Prime Minister in 2022. The farmers' group learned about this charge after a court in Ferozepur denied bail to one of the protesting farmers.

On January 5, 2022, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's convoy was halted on a flyover due to a protest blockade in Ferozepur, Punjab. Consequently, he returned without attending scheduled events, including a rally. The Supreme Court later appointed a committee led by former judge Indu Malhotra to investigate the security breach. Initially, police filed an FIR against 150 unidentified individuals under Section 283 of the IPC.

Farmers' Reaction and Legal Developments

Following an investigation by a Special Investigation Team (SIT), additional charges were added to the FIR. These include Sections 307 (attempt to murder), 353 (assault on a public servant), and others. Police have named 25 farmers in these charges. Bharti Kisan Union Krantikari president Baldev Singh Zira stated that Kanwaljit Singh's bail plea was rejected by a Sessions Court recently.

Zira claimed that the state government is acting under pressure from the Union government. He explained that three years ago, farmers were heading towards the district administrative complex for a protest when police blocked their path near a bridge. According to Zira, they were unaware of the Prime Minister's route and began protesting near the bridge.

Allegations of Pressure and Conspiracy

Zira further alleged that serious charges like Section 307 were added due to external pressure. He stated that police named 25 individuals, including himself, without notifying them or issuing summons. Now, non-bailable warrants are being issued for their non-appearance in court. Zira believes this is a conspiracy to weaken Kissan Morcha 2.0 but vowed not to let it succeed.

Farmer leader Surjit Singh Phul condemned the Punjab Police for charging farmers with attempted murder. He accused the Punjab government of acting under central pressure. On January 5, 2022, PM Modi was set to inaugurate projects worth over Rs 42,750 crore, including an expressway and a satellite centre.

Political Fallout and Accusations

The Prime Minister's convoy was stopped near Piareana village on the Ferozepur-Moga road by protesters for about 15-20 minutes. Consequently, he returned without dedicating projects or addressing a rally. This incident sparked political controversy with BJP accusing Congress of endangering the PM's safety while other parties criticised Punjab's law and order situation.

The ongoing legal proceedings and political accusations continue to stir tensions between farmer groups and authorities. The farmers remain determined in their protests despite facing legal challenges and pressure from various quarters.