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The ongoing farmers' protest in India, centered around the demand for a legal guarantee of the Minimum Support Price (MSP), reached a significant milestone on August 31st – its 200th day. The protest, which began on February 13th after authorities blocked the farmers' march to Delhi, has seen a surge in support from various quarters, including prominent figures like Olympian wrestler Vinesh Phogat.
Phogat, a vocal advocate for the farmers' cause, joined the protest at the Shambhu border, expressing her solidarity with the farmers and her anguish over their plight. She was honored by the farmers during the day's events, highlighting the widespread support the movement has garnered. Phogat's powerful message underscored the importance of the farmers' struggle, stating that 'farmers run the country,' and without their contribution, even athletes like herself would be unable to succeed.
However, despite the growing support and the symbolic 200-day mark, the protest reflects a deep sense of frustration among farmers, as the government has remained largely unresponsive to their demands. Farmer leaders have repeatedly reached out to both Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, but their efforts have been met with silence. This lack of response has intensified the farmers' dissatisfaction, particularly as Modi enters his 11th year in office. The government's perceived silence and inaction have been interpreted by the farmers as a form of suppression of their voice, further fueling their anger and determination to continue the protest.
As the protest continues, farmers are preparing to escalate their demands and pressure the government. Kisan Mazdoor Morcha convenor Sarvan Singh Pandher has called for a large gathering at the Shambu and Khanauri borders on August 31st, where new announcements and renewed calls for action are expected. This gathering serves as a stark reminder of the farmers' unwavering resolve and their determination to see their demands met. With no signs of the protest ending anytime soon, the government will need to find a way to address the farmers' grievances and bring an end to this prolonged and contentious standoff.
Source: Olympian Vinesh Phogat joins farmers' protest as MSP demand hits 200 days