Government Calls for Peaceful Dialogue with Protesting Farmers

Union Agriculture Minister Arjun Munda emphasized the central government's readiness to address the concerns raised by Punjab farmers, extending an invitation for a fifth round of discussions while emphasizing the importance of resolving issues through dialogue.

"In the wake of the fourth round, the government stands prepared to address all concerns including MSP, crop diversification, stubble management, and FIR in the upcoming fifth round of talks. I once again extend an invitation to farmer leaders for constructive dialogue," stated Arjun Munda in an interview with ANI.

Munda urged for peaceful proceedings, emphasizing the need to seek solutions through dialogue. While noting the absence of a response from the farmers, he appealed for progress in the talks.

"We are yet to receive any response from the farmers' side. It's imperative that we proceed with discussions to present our respective positions. The government is keen on progressing and finding a resolution," expressed the Union Minister.

Arjun Munda is part of the ministerial team engaged in discussions with farmer leaders, along with Piyush Goyal and Nityanand Rai.

Meanwhile, Sarwan Singh Pandher, the general secretary of Punjab Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee, reiterated the demand for legal assurance of minimum support price (MSP) and assured a peaceful approach going forward.

"We have decided that only leaders will march towards the national capital under the 'Dilli Chalo' initiative, ensuring a peaceful protest. We reiterate our call for a legal guarantee on MSP," stated Pandher.

The ongoing protests resumed on Wednesday with a peaceful march by leaders towards Delhi. Amidst talks impasse, farmer leaders rejected the Centre's proposal on MSP purchase, citing it as unfavorable to farmers' interests.

The demonstrations have witnessed clashes between protesters and security forces, resulting in injuries on both sides. Despite the resistance, farmers remain steadfast in their demands, camping at the Shambhu border near Ambala since the initiation of the protest.

The series of talks between the government and farmer representatives on February 8, 12, and 15 yielded no conclusive resolution, prolonging the impasse.