Protesting farmers refuse to budge

GOVERNMENT’S OFFER

The Centre had proposed to suspend the three contentious agri laws for 18 months, and form a joint committee to end the months-long agitation by cultivators at Delhi’s borders.

WHAT'S NEXT

Talks today: Farm leaders’ decision only deepens the standoff with no apparent resolution in sight ahead of the 11th round of talks between the two sides today.

R-day protest: Despite not being given permission yet, protesters plan to hold a tractor rally at Delhi’s outer ring road on Republic Day, Jan 26.

SC hearing: The matter is also being heard by the Supreme Court, and the next hearing is likely in early Feb.

FARM LEADERS’ RESPONSE

The protesting farm unions on Thursday unanimously rejected the government’s offer, saying they won’t budge from their demand seeking a repeal of the new laws.

Some farm leaders also said the government’s offer would ‘divert and delay’ the farmers’ demands.

“The proposal put forth by the government yesterday (Jan 20) was rejected. A full repeal of three central farm acts and enacting a legislation for remunerative MSP for all farmers were reiterated as the pending demands of the movement.”

— SAMYUKT KISAN MORCHA, in a statement