Shubhkaran Singh : “Dilli Chalo March: Youth Death Sparks Anger, Key Player Returns”

Accident – Death – Obituary News : The tragic passing of Shubhkaran Singh, a 22-year-old farmer from Bathinda’s Ballo village, has sent shockwaves through the protesting farmers and the Centre, further complicating the ongoing negotiations. Shubhkaran lost his life due to an injury to the back of his neck while participating in the protests at Khanauri border, leading to a halt in talks between farm leaders and the government.

The demand to declare Shubhkaran a “martyr” has gained momentum, with farm outfits refusing to allow the police to conduct an autopsy on his body, which has been lying at the hospital since the incident. The Bharti Kisan Union (Sidhupur) and Kisan Mazdoor Sangharsh Committee have been at the forefront of this demand, calling on the state government to honour Shubhkaran’s sacrifice.

The Samyukta Kisan Morcha (SKM), which spearheaded the 2020-21 farm laws agitation, has also joined the chorus for justice for Shubhkaran. They are seeking an FIR under murder charges against Haryana government officials and the state Home Minister, along with a compensation of Rs 1 crore for Shubhkaran’s family. Additionally, they are calling for a judicial inquiry into his death and for Haryana to cover the costs of damaged tractors during the protests.

A meeting convened by the SKM saw over 100 farm union leaders from across the country come together to declare a nationwide black day on February 23 in solidarity with Shubhkaran. They will be joined by central trade unions, whose members will wear black badges to work as a mark of protest.

Rakesh Tikait, leader of Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU), announced plans for a tractor march on highways leading to Delhi on February 26, and a one-day event at the Ramlila ground in Delhi on March 14. The Punjab and Haryana High Court Bar association has also decided to abstain from work on Friday to condemn the tragic incident and police excesses.

In response to the situation, the state government has assigned ADGP Intelligence Jaskaran Singh to hold meetings with the agitating farmers leaders. While the government has expressed sympathy and promised financial assistance to Shubhkaran’s family, they maintain that decisions will not be made under pressure. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann addressed the state via video following the tragedy, showing a willingness to engage with the farmers’ demands.

The events surrounding Shubhkaran’s death have reignited the farmers’ resolve and brought a renewed sense of urgency to the protests. The push for justice and recognition for Shubhkaran’s sacrifice continues to drive the movement forward, with leaders and supporters alike standing united in their quest for a fair resolution..