National Desk, Feb 21: In a heart-wrenching development amidst the ongoing farmers’ protest, 20-year-old Shubhkaran Singh has tragically passed away due to a severe head injury sustained at the Khanauri border of Punjab and Haryana. The young farmer’s demise has been confirmed by prominent farmer leaders.
The unfortunate incident occurred as Shubhkaran Singh was advancing towards New Delhi in response to the call of farmers’ organizations. While attempting to move forward, he suffered a grievous head injury, purportedly from a bullet fired by security forces, ultimately leading to his untimely death. Shubhkaran, who owned only three acres of land, had joined the protest at Khanauri to voice his support for the agrarian cause.
Shubhkaran Singh, the sole brother to two sisters, leaves behind a grieving family. Gurwinder Singh, Vice President of Bharatiya Kisan Union Ekta Malwa Punjab, confirmed the tragic loss, highlighting the somber reality of the risks faced by protesters.
Reports from Patiala-based Rajindra Hospital’s medical superintendent, H S Rekhi, indicate that three individuals, including Shubhkaran Singh, were brought to the hospital from the Khanauri border. While Shubhkaran succumbed to his injuries, the condition of the other two individuals remains stable.
In the wake of the tragedy, farmer leaders have vehemently demanded that the Punjab government provide adequate compensation to Shubhkaran’s family and alleviate any financial burdens they may face. The call for justice echoes within the farming community, emphasizing the urgent need for accountability.
However, the Haryana Police have refuted claims of any fatalities among the protesters on Wednesday. In a statement posted on X, the Haryana Police clarified that, according to the information available, no farmers lost their lives that day, dismissing such reports as mere rumors. They acknowledged injuries sustained by two policemen and one protester at the Data Singh-Khanori border, all of whom are reportedly undergoing treatment.
Meanwhile, Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) General Secretary Bikram Singh Majithia criticized Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann for what he perceives as a failure to safeguard the interests of agrarians. Despite four rounds of discussions with a delegation of Union Ministers, negotiations with farmer leaders have yet to yield a resolution. Union Agriculture Minister Arjun Munda reaffirms the government’s willingness to engage in dialogue with protesting farmers, underscoring the need for constructive engagement amidst escalating tensions.
The untimely demise of Shubhkaran Singh serves as a stark reminder of the perils faced by farmers advocating for their rights, amplifying calls for justice and solidarity within the community.
Read more: Haryana Police Fire Tear Gas at Protesting Farmers on Shambhu Border
