Complete Shutdown in Punjab as Farmers’ Protests Intensify, India

India, Punjab is set to witness a complete shutdown on December 30 as farmer unions amplify their demands for legal guarantees on Minimum Support Prices (MSP) and agricultural reforms. The strike will run from 7 AM to 4 PM, paralyzing transportation, markets, and essential services.

The Kisan Mazdoor Morcha and Kisan Sangathan Morcha announced the shutdown in support of Jagji Singh Dallewal, a farmer leader who has been on a hunger strike for over a month. The Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) has also pledged its support, with all SGPC offices to remain closed during the strike.

Protesters plan to block around 200 road points and 50 railway tracks. Transportation services, including LPG cylinder deliveries and fuel stations, will be disrupted, confirmed JP Agarwal of the Ludhiana Transport Dealers Association.

Educational institutions have adjusted schedules, with Punjab University and Guru Nanak Dev University postponing examinations, while most schools remain closed for winter break.

The shutdown is part of an escalating protest movement, starting with the “Delhi Chalo” march and evolving into “Rail Roko” demonstrations. Farmers are pressing for 13 agricultural demands, with MSP guarantees at the forefront.

Markets across Punjab, including Rajpura, Sangrur, and Mansa, will remain closed, affecting essential services like milk and vegetable supply. Negotiations between farmer unions and the government have so far failed to resolve the issue.