Surinderpal Singh, a 60-year-old farmer, met an untimely demise on Saturday during a protest organized by members of the Bhartiya Kisan Union (Sidhupur) against Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate Preneet Kaur in Patiala. The incident occurred in Sehra village in Ghanaur, while Kaur was visiting the area and her convoy was met with black flags and agitated farmers.
Multiple videos of the incident circulated online, capturing the chaotic scene as farmers surrounded Kaur’s vehicles. Allegations surfaced, with Jagjit Singh Dallewal, president of BKU (Sidhupur), claiming that the farmer’s death resulted from rough handling by BJP supporters.
The incident quickly escalated into a political controversy, drawing reactions from various parties. Kaur expressed her condolences to the farmer’s family, reaffirming her support for the farming community. However, opposition leaders seized on the opportunity to criticize both the BJP and the ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP).
BJP Counters Allegations
Punjab BJP president Sunil Jakhar refuted the allegations, asserting that the farmer collapsed on his own accord and that no external force caused his demise. He urged caution against politicizing the unfortunate incident.
The incident occurred amidst ongoing protests by farmers across Punjab, who have been actively disrupting BJP candidates’ campaigns. Tensions remain high, with farmers voicing their grievances and concerns.
Opposition Critiques BJP, AAP
Opposition parties, particularly the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) and Congress, lambasted both the BJP and AAP, accusing them of neglecting farmers’ welfare. SAD president Sukhbir Singh Badal and Congress state chief Amarinder Singh Raja Warring condemned the incident and demanded accountability from the ruling parties.
Demand for justice echoed across party lines, with leaders calling for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the farmer’s death. The tragic incident has underscored the deepening rift between farmers and political entities in Punjab.
As Punjab grapples with the aftermath of this unfortunate event, the need for dialogue and resolution becomes increasingly urgent. The farmer’s death serves as a somber reminder of the pressing issues facing the agricultural community and the imperative for political accountability.