Khalid Hussain Batt, Chairman of Kisan Ittehad Pakistan, issued a stark ultimatum on Friday, warning of imminent protests if the Punjab government fails to initiate wheat procurement within the week.
Addressing a press conference at the Quetta Press Club, Batt condemned the use of force by Punjab police against peaceful protestors, particularly decrying the targeting of women, children, and elderly peasants during an incident on April 29, 2024.
Batt underscored the severity of the situation, asserting that such police actions were unprecedented, even during martial law periods. He emphasized the legitimacy of the farmers’ demands, notably the urgent need for wheat procurement and the settlement of unpaid sugarcane dues.
Furthermore, Batt highlighted recent agricultural losses in Balochistan due to heavy rains, calling for government assistance in the form of free solar energy for Balochistan’s farmers. He also urged security forces not to disrupt peasants at checkpoints in the region, stressing the importance of unimpeded access for agricultural activities.
The looming threat of protests underscores the pressing need for the Punjab government to address farmers’ grievances and ensure agricultural stability in Pakistan.