India’s farmers are fighting for their livelihoods and their lives

For years, farmers have been demanding change. Many have died trying to reform a system that has been at a crisis point for decades

What would you do amid the pandemic if your fundamental rights of food, shelter, clothing and sleep were taken from you?

This is what is happening to the farmers in India. Their fundamental rights are at stake and many are choosing to join the peaceful protest.

For the first time in India’s history, an inspiring movement for change is underway, guided by Sikhs, whose existence is rooted in principles of justice and equality.

This peaceful protest started in Punjab and quickly spread to other parts of the nation. Society is choosing to step up and support the movement across the country.

Notably, the Supreme Court bar association has taken a rare step of backing any protest. Several artists, film actors, and Punjabi singers not only support the protest but are active participants themselves. They choose to convey their message through songs and music. Sports personalities, retired armed forces personnel, doctors, teachers and lawyers have been camping at the New Delhi border for months.

Farmers, both male and female, face harsh weather conditions as they are on the national highway with makeshift shelters of tractors and carts. More than 100 have died from the cold weather, sickness and suicide.

Hindus, Sikhs, and Muslims are protesting side by side.

Some of India’s farmers make up 50 to 60 per cent of India’s population and rely on agriculture as a last means to earn their living.

The system they have is not perfect, with declining agricultural incomes driving many farmers deep into debt.

For years, farmers have been demanding change. Many have died trying to reform a system that has been at a crisis point for decades. The farmer’s suicide rate in India is among the highest in the world — with 10,000 deaths per year.

Amid cries for change India’s government introduced a new set of laws. These were developed without consulting the farmers, rammed through the parliament and approved without a formal vote.

Instead of addressing the issues and concerns of the farmers, the new regulations actually threaten their livelihood.

Key farmer concerns are: a dismantled way of life, family-owned farms are unviable, farmers are left with few other options in a stagnating job industry, and an increased burden on an already vulnerable sector by placing them at the mercy of massive corporations.

The appeal of these farmers is for the Indian government to repeal the laws immediately.

As farmers worldwide are supporting this protest, we want to raise awareness here in Ontario.

The immediate challenge isn’t in Canada, but it affects the Indian community here, many of whom own farm land in India and/or have relatives who are farmers.

The Indian community here is deeply concerned with the dangerous rhetoric and narrative propagated by the Indian government and its chosen national media.

We fear that the government will use violence to silence the protesters.

Even though we are not in India, we invite you to show your support for humanity and help protect these peaceful protesters. You can do this with the #askindiawhy and support this global historical movement.