Day 3 of farmer protest: Lull at Chandigarh's Sector 34 site, respite for locals

As no activity was planned for Day 3 of the farmer protest at the Sector 34 ground, protesters spent most of their time on mobile phones, which they charged using kundi connections from the street light poles. The kundi connections were also used to run fans at the site.

“The state administration should have provided electricity connections to our tents. We have to find our own way to manage through kundi connections,” said a protesting farmer, who later appreciated the administration for providing water tankers in the morning for following their daily routine. “Where else could we have charged our mobile phones? It’s important to connect with our family members back home and the only way to spend our rest of the day here. It’s so hot here, that’s why we have brought our own pedestal fans,” said another farmer.

By afternoon, the farmers explored the nearby areas, but in small groups in order to avoid a ‘thin presence’ at the site. “We just cannot leave the protesting site and roam around in the city. We do visit the nearby places and the gurdwara, but in small groups. No one can sit at the same place day long and do nothing. We are here for a cause and fighting for our rights,” added Balwinder.

In the evening, as it started to rain, the farmers covered their tents with waterproof (tarpaulin) sheets and stayed inside. A prayer meeting was also conducted in order to keep alive the spirit of the protest. “We are here as a united and extended family for a better future of the country. We have brought our own cylinders, cooking materials, fans, tarpaulin, mattresses and other things so that we continue our protest in a very peaceful manner,” said Anokh.

“The prayers and discussions are held throughout the day. We talk about the government policies, the state’s contribution to the uplift of farmers, increased involvement of politicians and how to carry out our protests. To manage a protest at such a large scale needs a lot of work, planning, execution and aim,” added another protester.

Tomorrow, more people from Punjab are expected to reach the site. The BKU (Ekta-Ugrahan) has announced a five-day protest at the Sector 34 open ground.

Unlike yesterday, offices and educational institutions in the vicinity of the protest site opened on their scheduled time, but footfall at the nearby business establishments remained less than usual. A portion of the road leading to the site has been blocked for vehicles. “The number of farmers was fewer than yesterday, which was a relief for commuters. Defecation in the open is one of the major problems and they (protesters) should be made aware of it,” said Aparna, a student.

Personnel of the Punjab and UT police, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) continue to guard the area round the clock.

Next course of stir to be decided on Sept 5

“We are ready to stay here as long as our leaders want. The initial call was for five days, but the future course of action will be decided on September 5, as told to the media by our leaders on Monday. We are campaigning peacefully and brought all necessary material to stay put for a long time, if needed, without troubling anyone,” said a farmer.