The agricultural landscape in India is once again witnessing a significant movement as farmers from Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh embark on the “Delhi Chalo” march, marking the onset of Farmers’ Protest 2.0. This resurgence comes nearly two years after the 2020-21 demonstrations that led to the repeal of three contentious farm laws. 

Contextualizing the Protest 

1. Shifting Demands: From Repeal to Legal Guarantees

In stark contrast to the 2020 protests focused on repealing three farm laws, the Delhi Chalo movement prioritizes a spectrum of demands. Foremost among these is the call for a legal guarantee on the minimum support price (MSP) for all crops, alongside comprehensive measures such as full debt waivers, pension schemes for farmers, and the implementation of the Swaminathan Commission’s formula. Additionally, there is a resolute demand for the withdrawal of cases against farmers stemming from the 2020 protests.

2. Evolving Leadership Landscape

The leadership dynamic of Farmers’ Protest 2.0 has undergone a significant transformation. While the 2020 agitation saw the Bhartiya Kisan Union and Samyukt Kisan Morcha taking the lead, the current movement is orchestrated by diverse unions, including the non-political Samyukt Kisan Morcha and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha. This shift underscores the changing nature of farmers’ unions and their collaborative approach to champion the cause.

Changing Leadership Dynamics: 

The 2020 agitation was predominantly led by the Bhartiya Kisan Union and Samyukt Kisan Morcha. However, the landscape of farmers’ unions has transformed, with the Delhi Chalo protest being spearheaded by different unions, including the non-political Samyukt Kisan Morcha and the Kisan Mazdoor Morcha. 

3. Faces of the Movement: Past and Present

Prominent figures from the 2020 protests, such as Rakesh Tikait and Gurnam Singh Charuni, have given way to leaders like Jagjit Singh Dallewal and Sarwan Singh Pandher in the current scenario. This leadership transition symbolizes the continuity and adaptability of the farmers’ movement, emphasizing a collective effort across various factions.

4. Government Engagement: Proactive Negotiations

A noteworthy departure from the past is the government’s proactive engagement in negotiations. Unlike the 2020 protests, where the government conceded to withdrawing cases but refrained from providing a legal MSP guarantee, talks between farmer leaders and Union ministers commenced early in the Delhi Chalo movement. The negotiation process, initiated on February 8 and continued on February 12, signals a willingness to address concerns promptly.

5. Stringent Preventative Measures: Securing the Capital

The administration’s response to the ongoing movement includes stringent measures to prevent a repeat of the 2020-21 protests. Barbed wire, cement barricades, and roadblocks with nails have been implemented, restricting access to Delhi. Section 144 is in effect, and the Haryana government has closed its borders with Punjab, showcasing a strategic effort to maintain order.

Conclusion: A Renewed Struggle for Agricultural Rights

In conclusion, Farmers’ Protest 2.0, embodied in the Delhi Chalo movement, signifies a renewed determination among farmers to secure their rights and demands. As this chapter unfolds, the interplay between evolving dynamics, government responsiveness, and preventative measures paints a nuanced picture of the ongoing struggle for the welfare of the farming community. The nation watches closely, recognizing the significance of this movement in shaping the future of Indian agriculture.