On February 16, India braces for a nationwide protest as workers and farmers have announced a sectoral industrial strike and Gramin Bharat Bandh. The Samyukta Kisan Morcha, representing farmers in a non-political capacity, has issued a call for unity among farmer organisations to participate in the day-long protest, slated to run from 6 AM to 4 PM.If reports are to go by, the protest will feature extensive chakka jams, or roadblocks, on major thoroughfares across the country, with a particular focus on Punjab where most state and national highways are expected to be closed for four hours.
A joint statement signed by 34 public intellectuals and artists has voiced support for the strike, urging people from diverse backgrounds to stand in solidarity with the farmers and workers. The statement emphasises the importance of this “momentous action” and calls for widespread support.
Despite the disruption caused by the Bharat Bandh, emergency services such as ambulance…
