Akali Dal Stages Protest Against Punjab’s Land Pooling Policy

Speedy Summary

• Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) members held a protest in Bathinda town against Punjab’s land pooling policy.
• SAD president Sukhbir Singh Badal described the policy as “anti-farming community” adn alleged it was aimed at grabbing farmers’ land.
• The Punjab government introduced the land pooling policy in June to promote planned and sustainable development,involving stakeholders like landowners,promoters,and companies.
• Mr. Badal criticized the AAP-led government’s approach, stating it prioritizes Delhi-based leadership over Punjab’s interests.
• He raised concerns about farmers suffering long delays in development projects adversely impacting agriculture and questioned the feasibility of developing large areas such as ludhiana’s proposed 24,000 acres.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The protest highlights growing tensions between opposition parties like SAD and the governing AAP over state policies affecting rural livelihoods. While the Punjab government defends its move as a strategy for sustainable development through stakeholder inclusion, critics argue that implementation challenges could disproportionately affect farmers. The mention of past under-utilization of acquired lands adds credibility to concerns about delays. With agriculture being central to Punjab’s economy and identity, disputes surrounding farmland management carry important economic and socio-political implications for both farmers’ welfare and governance stability.Read more: The Hindu