Unique protest: Farmers take out ‘Jaago' march in Moga village against govt policies

In a first-of-its-kind protest, farmers organised a unique ‘Jaago march’ in Singhabala village of Moga district, expressing their resentment against the Central and Punjab governments.

Drawing inspiration from the traditional Punjabi wedding custom of ‘Jaago’, in which women carry decorated brass pots on their heads while singing and moving through the village to spread celebration and awareness, farmers turned the cultural ritual into a symbolic protest march on Tuesday night.

A large number of farmers, including women, participated in the event. Women carried decorated ‘Jaago’ props on their heads and marched through the village lanes, raising slogans and spreading awareness about their demands.

Farmer leaders alleged that their concerns were being consistently ignored by the authorities. They expressed apprehension over the proposed Electricity Amendment Bill-2025, claiming that its implementation could lead to the withdrawal of power subsidies, an increase in electricity tariffs, and the introduction of a prepaid meter system.

Similarly, concerns were raised regarding the proposed Seed Bill, 2025. Farmer union representatives said that restrictions on the sale of unregistered and non-branded seeds could adversely affect small and marginal farmers who rely on traditional seed systems.punjab

Leaders also voiced dissatisfaction over changes in labour laws, provisions related to MGNREGA, and the possibility of free trade agreements, stating that such measures could negatively impact the agricultural sector and rural employment.

Farmer organisations described the Jaago March as the beginning of a broader awareness campaign. They announced plans to gherao (lay siege to) the residences of Punjab MLAs and leaders of the Central Government on February 22 as part of their next phase of agitation.

The march marked a symbolic and culturally rooted expression of protest.