SKM Supports Nationwide Tractor and Vehicle Parades by Farmers on Republic Day

The Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM) expressed satisfaction with the nationwide response from farmers to their call for tractor, vehicle, or motorcycle parades on the 76th Republic Day. According to a statement from SKM, these rallies were organised by its constituent groups and trade unions under the Joint Platform of Central Trade Unions (JPCTUs) and IFTU across most states.

In Tamil Nadu, impressive rallies took place in fifteen districts. Meanwhile, in Punjab, tractor parades were held in every district. Black flags were prominently displayed on tractors to show discontent with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's unfulfilled promises to farmers. The SKM highlighted that similar rallies occurred in Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Assam.

Farmers' Rally Highlights

In Gujarat's Sabarkantha and Aravalli districts, vehicle rallies were also conducted. The Republic Day tractor parade has become an annual event since its inception on 26th January 2021 during the significant Kisan Andolan aimed at repealing three controversial farm laws. This year's rally emphasised the demand for state assemblies to pass resolutions rejecting the National Policy Framework on Agricultural Marketing (NPFAM).

The SKM stated that the current NDA3 government under PM Modi is attempting to reintroduce previously rejected pro-corporate laws through indirect means. "The Republic Day tractor parade by SKM has become a yearly affair that commemorates the first such parade which was taken out on 26th January 2021 in the thick of the historic Kisan Andolan to repeal the three black farm laws," they said.

Peaceful Demonstrations Across States

The SKM praised the peaceful and disciplined nature of this year's rallies. They noted that these demonstrations were a significant expression of farmers' demands and frustrations. "The SKM wholeheartedly welcomes the massive, peaceful and disciplined rally by farmers and workers," it said.

This year's events served as a reminder of ongoing agricultural issues and the need for government accountability. The rallies highlighted farmers' continued resistance against policies perceived as detrimental to their interests.