Punjab Speaker Questions Gallantry Medals to Haryana Police Amid Farmers' Protest

Punjab Assembly Speaker Kultar Singh Sandhwan has expressed his disapproval of the Haryana government's recent recommendation to award gallantry medals to six police officers. These officers were involved in preventing farmers from reaching Delhi during their Delhi Chalo programme. Sandhwan conveyed his concerns in a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The Haryana government had recommended the names of six police officers, including three IPS and three from the Haryana Police Service, for gallantry medals. These recommendations were made for their role in stopping farmers from heading towards the national capital in February. The farmers, under the banners of Samyukta Kisan Morcha Non-Political and Kisan Mazdoor Morcha (KMM), were halted at the Shambhu and Khanauri border points between Punjab and Haryana.

Farmers' Peaceful Protest

Farmers have been protesting at these border points since February 13, demanding a legal guarantee for minimum support price (MSP) for crops. The protests have been largely peaceful, with farmers exercising their right to assemble and voice their concerns. However, clashes at the Khanauri border on February 21 resulted in the death of young farmer Shubhkaran Singh from Bathinda and injuries to several police personnel.

In his letter, Sandhwan criticised the recommendation for gallantry medals, stating it undermines democratic values and disrespects the peaceful struggle of farmers. He wrote, "It not only undermines the democratic values that our great nation stands for but also disrespects the legitimate and peaceful struggle of our farmers." He added that such a decision could set a dangerous precedent by suggesting that using force against peaceful protestors is commendable.

Concerns Over Gallantry Medals

Sandhwan emphasised that while he respects the bravery and dedication of the police force, it is crucial to consider the context and implications of their actions. He stated, "The policemen involved acted in accordance with their duty, but their actions should not be glorified with gallantry medals." He urged the Prime Minister to reconsider the recommendation, stressing the importance of upholding democracy, justice, and human rights.

The Speaker highlighted that awarding gallantry medals to officers involved in such actions is akin to adding insult to injury for the farmers. He wrote, "This decision could set a dangerous precedent, suggesting that the use of force against peaceful protestors is commendable and worthy of honour." Sandhwan's plea was simple: "Let us honour bravery without forsaking understanding."

Impact on Democratic Values

Sandhwan pointed out that the police action resulted in considerable distress for many peaceful protestors. He asserted that it implies a commendation of using force against peaceful demonstrators, which could erode democratic values. He wrote, "The action of the police force, while executed under directives, resulted in considerable distress and hardship for many peaceful protestors."

The Speaker concluded by urging respect and acknowledgment for farmers' contributions rather than further alienation and injustice. He stated, "It is imperative that we uphold the principles of democracy, justice, and human rights. The farmers of our nation deserve respect and acknowledgment for their contributions."