SKM leaders call for judicial inquiry into cause of floods

The Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM) Punjab held a meeting in Ludhiana on Saturday, presided over by senior leaders Joginder Singh Ugrahan, Angrez Singh Bhadaur, Hardev Singh Sandhu and Kuldeep Singh Garewal. The session focused on the devastating floods across Punjab and outlined demands and protest actions to hold authorities accountable and secure relief for affected farmers and labourers.

SKM leaders claimed the floods were not merely a natural calamity but a result of administrative negligence. They cited rising global temperatures, poor dam maintenance and mismanagement of water release as key contributors. The group demanded a judicial inquiry into the causes of the floods and legal action against those found responsible. They also called for the repeal of the Dam Safety Act and the Water Amendment Act, urging that control over rivers be returned to riparian states.

To press these demands, SKM announced statewide protests outside all Deputy Commissioner offices on October 8, with preparatory district-level meetings scheduled for October 4. The group warned that further agitation would follow if the government fails to respond.

The meeting also addressed stubble burning. While SKM does not endorse the practice, it opposed punitive action against farmers forced to burn stubble due to lack of alternatives. Leaders urged the government to implement National Green Tribunal recommendations and provide machinery or compensation of Rs 200 per quintal for stubble management.

On the recent murder of a child in Hoshiarpur, SKM demanded swift justice through a fast-track court but condemned vilification of the migrant labour community. The group called for an end to divisive campaigns like “Bhaiya Bhajao” and urged proper implementation of the Punjab Inter-State Migrant Workmen Act, 1979, to ensure verification and prevent crime.

The meeting was attended by prominent farmer leaders including Balbir Singh Rajewal, Manjeet Singh Dhaner, Boota Singh Burj Gill, Dr Satnam Singh Ajnala and others.