Farmers Protest: From the Frontlines at Shambhu Barrier

Dear Supporters,

My name is Baljeet Singh, a volunteer with UNITED SIKHS from Ropar. I’ve dedicated the last few years to serve humanity through our organization, and recently, I’ve been stationed at our farmers’ relief camp at the Shambhu barrier. This location has become a focal point for farmers camped in protest, demanding fair Minimum Support Prices (MSP) and the fulfillment of commitments made by the Government of India in 2021. I’m reaching out to share a harrowing experience that unfolded right before my eyes.

On a day that started like any other at Shambhu barrier, at just minutes before 11 am, the air was suddenly pierced by the firing of a tear gas canister, unprovoked, from the side where police were deployed. What followed was a barrage of rubber bullets and tear gas, plunging the area into chaos. The farmers, many elderly and barely able to walk, were caught off-guard, resulting in numerous injuries amidst a cloud of heavy smoke. It was a scene reminiscent of a battlefield, with our own forces firing relentlessly at unarmed, peacefully protesting farmers.

The sight was heart-wrenching. It was a blatant disregard for human rights, democracy, and the principles we hold dear. The elderly, some akin to my parents in age, were subjected to indiscriminate firing, their age and frailty ignored. The question of “How could they?” echoed in my mind as I witnessed the unfolding brutality.

Compelled by a deep sense of duty amid the chaos, I sprung into action. Armed with eye drops and ointments, I navigated through the smoke and confusion to provide immediate relief to those afflicted by the tear gas. Amidst my efforts, a tear gas shell exploded nearby, enveloping me in smoke and causing intense pain, despite my protective eyewear.

The tragedy was compounded by the news of Shubhkaran Singh, a young farmer’s death at the Khanauri border, another casualty of the force used against the protesting farmers.

Despite the challenges, our team persists in providing aid at the Shambhu barrier. We’ve offered immediate relief to hundreds of farmers, administering medicines and utilizing our ambulances for critical care.

As the farmers’ protest seeks resolution, UNITED SIKHS’ commitment goes beyond just medical aid; our legal team is providing legal aid and advocacy for farmers facing undue force for simply exercising their constitutional rights to expression and peaceful assembly. 

The dire situation, marked by severe retaliation against peaceful protests, begs for the urgent need for our support in upholding their rights. We advocate not only for the peaceful resolution of their demands but also for the respect and protection of their rights. 

Join us in offering humanitarian aid, medical relief, and advocacy for justice and the rights of those fighting for their livelihoods.

Your generosity can help heal wounds and restore dignity to those who have suffered unjustly. 

Thank you for your support.

Sincerely,

Baljeet Singh

UNITED SIKHS Volunteer