Samyukt Kisan Morcha to Restart Protests from Nov 26 with Seven Demands
UPSC / SSC current affairs note · Polity
Why in news
The Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM), an umbrella body of farmer groups, has announced it will restart protests at 100 locations across India, including Delhi, from November 26. This comes after the success of student protests at Jantar Mantar, indicating a renewed phase of agrarian and social agitation.
Background
The SKM was involved in the anti-farm laws agitation five years ago, which led to the repeal of three farm laws in 2021. The upcoming protests are part of a continued struggle for farmer rights and economic demands.
Key facts
Samyukt Kisan Morcha announced protests at 100 locations across India, including Delhi, starting November 26.
The protests will demand a law guaranteeing Minimum Support Price (MSP).
Demands include repeal of all Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), including the India-US FTA under negotiation.
A comprehensive loan waiver to address rural indebtedness is among the demands.
The protesters seek scrapping of four labour codes.
They demand a minimum wage of Rs 31,000 for workers and restoration of the old rural job guarantee scheme.
Withdrawal of Electricity Privatisation Bill 2025, Seed Bill 2025, and NFSA Amendment Bill is demanded.
They also demand no forceful land acquisition.
P Krishnaprasad of AIKS stated that protests will not be called off until all seven demands are accepted.
Prelims pointers
- Samyukt Kisan Morcha (SKM): umbrella organisation of farmer groups
- MSP: Minimum Support Price
- FTA: Free Trade Agreement
- NFSA: National Food Security Act
- AIKS: All India Kisan Sabha
- Jantar Mantar: protest site in Delhi
- Date: November 26 (start of protests)
- Bills mentioned: Electricity Privatisation Bill 2025, Seed Bill 2025, NFSA Amendment Bill
Mains angles
- GS2: Issues relating to pressure groups and formal/informal associations and their role in polity
- GS3: Issues related to direct and indirect farm subsidies and minimum support prices; Public Distribution System
- GS3: Effects of liberalization on the economy, changes in industrial policy and their effects on growth
- GS3: Land reforms in India