EXPLAINER: Why disputes over weighing sparked tension in Sirsa’s grain market

Tension erupted at Sirsa’s new grain market on Monday as farmers accused commission agents or arhtiyas, of cheating during paddy weighing. The farmers claimed that traditional weighing scales were adding 300 to 500 grams per bag, resulting in financial losses. The dispute led to protests, on-the-spot checks using digital scales, and confrontations between the farmers and arhtiyas. While Market Committee officials attempted mediation, no immediate solution was reached. The conflict highlights the ongoing demand for electronic weighing machines to ensure transparency and fair payments for farmers’ crops.

What triggered the conflict at the grain market?

The farmers at Sirsa’s new grain market alleged that arhtiyas were using traditional weighing scales that inflated the weight of paddy bags by 300 to 500 grams. This practice, they claimed, was causing financial losses. Led by Haryana Kisan Manch state president Gurdeep Singh Jhiri, the farmers protested against the use of traditional scales and demanded the installation of electronic weighing machines to ensure accurate measurement and fair payment for their produce.

How were the farmers’ claims verified?

To verify the allegations, officials from the Haryana Kisan Manch, along with the Market Committee officials, brought a digital weighing scale to the market. They checked paddy bags at several shops and found discrepancies ranging from 300 to 700 grams in five to six shops. The verification supported the farmers’ claims that traditional scales were not providing accurate measurements, intensifying calls for a shift to electronic weighing systems.

How did the arhtiyas respond to the protests?

Arhtiyas opposed the on-site weighing checks, arguing that the farmers had neither brought crops for sale nor filed formal complaints. Leaders of the Arhtiya Association, including vice-president Raju Sudha and secretary Rajender Singh, stated they had already agreed to install electronic scales per the Market Committee’s directives. They accused the farmer group of creating unnecessary pressure and disruption. The standoff escalated further when a farmer member recorded a video of the weighing process, which the arhtiyas demanded be deleted.

What steps were taken to resolve the issue?

Market Committee secretary Virender Mehta intervened and held a two-hour meeting with both sides, but no agreement was reached. The arhtiyas protested outside the committee office, blocking the vehicles of the farmers. The city police arrived to mediate and restored order. It was agreed that the farmers would not take direct action in the market without filing a formal complaint. Mehta later clarified that above 10 arhtiyas had already been issued notices two weeks earlier to install electronic scales, warning of action against non-compliance. The farmers emphasised that electronic weighing was crucial for transparency and fair payment.